Country star Jelly Roll sang his hit “I Am Not Okay” on the Emmy stage Sunday as the slideshow of TV figures who died since the last Emmys screened behind him.
Among the most recognizable faces in the roll call were actors such as Martin Mull, Piper Laurie, Gena Rowlands, and Shannen Doherty. Television personalities such as Dr. Ruth Wertheimer and fitness advocate Richard Simmons, and game show host Peter Marshall.
The loudest cheers from the audience came with the name of James Earl Jones, who died just days ago, and Bob Newhart, who got his own tribute from talk show host Jimmy Kimmel after Jelly Roll finished singing.
“And the Emmy for the industry professional we will most goes to … ,” Kimmel said as a photograph of Newhart remained on screen.
Kimmel talked about the personality and career of Newhart, noting that “Bob had what few comedians have today. A degree in accounting.
“Bob Newhart was one of our most loved and funniest people for more than 60 years and we will miss him for many years to come,” he concluded.
