The Untold Truth Of Bob Newhart

As Bob Newhart himself has admitted, the 2003 Christmas film "Elf" helped introduce him to a lot of his younger fans.

"I would say half my mail is 'Elf,'" the comedian told Forbes, reflecting on the popularity of the Will Ferrell vehicle. "It is, it really is." When he first came across the script, Newhart enthused about the "wonderful story" to his wife, telling her that it was sure to be a "perennial" holiday favorite. "I just see this as a 'Miracle on 34th Street,' every Christmas they're going to be playing this because it has such a wonderful theme.' And that's exactly what happened," he observed.

"Will really did an incredible job," Newhart added, praising Ferrell's ability to win over audiences. "He brings so much charm to it that people cheered for him." The comedian also complimented Jon Favreau's direction, explaining that "Jon was a wonderful director because he understood comedians."

Newhart's role as Papa Elf won him a lot of praise, especially from the younger generations. "That is a wonderful thing, to be part of kids' enjoyment of the Christmas season," he told The Hollywood Reporter.

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