Gene Shalit turns 100 and still remains one of TV’s most recognisable faces

Veteran film and book critic Gene Shalit has turned 100, marking a rare milestone for one of the most recognisable faces in television history.

Best known for his decades-long run on Today, Shalit became a staple of morning television after joining in 1970 and rising to prominence as a regular contributor from 1973.

Over more than four decades, he delivered film and book reviews in a style that set him apart, blending sharp insight with humour, wordplay and unmistakable flair.

His signature look, including a handlebar moustache, colourful bow ties and expressive delivery, made him instantly recognisable and helped him connect with generations of viewers.

The milestone was marked on the show by fellow host Al Roker, who paid tribute during a broadcast segment.

Shalit is reported to be celebrating with family, including his six children and five grandchildren, while also planning to watch his beloved New York Mets.

Beyond television, he built a wide-ranging career in journalism, contributing to TV Guide, Ladies’ Home Journal, Cosmopolitan and The New York Times.

He also hosted the daily radio segment “Man About Anything” on the NBC Radio Network from 1970 to 1982, which became one of the network’s most widely carried features.

Shalit’s cultural impact extended far beyond reviews. His distinctive persona was frequently parodied on Saturday Night Live and Family Guy, cementing his place in pop culture.

After more than 40 years on air, he retired from Today in 2010 with the line, “It’s enough already.”

Since then, he has largely stepped away from the spotlight, making only rare appearances, including a brief return in 2015 for Willard Scott’s retirement.

As he reaches 100, Shalit remains a defining voice in entertainment criticism, remembered not just for what he said, but how he said it.