Elf and Big Bang Theory star Bob Newhart dies aged 94

Elf and Big Bang Theory star Bob Newhart has died aged 94.

The comedian's publicist, Jerry Digney, announced his death this morning (18 July), explaining it comes 'after a series of short illnesses'.

An absolute legend of comedy, Newhart was well-known for his deadpan delivery among his many TV and film appearances.

As well as having his variety show, The Bob Newhart Show, the American star of course played Papa Elf in Elf alongside Will Ferrell.

Newhart later won an Emmy Award for his recurring guest-star role in The Big Bang Theory. As fans will know, he played Sheldon's hero, Arthur Jeffries - you know, Professor Proton the former kids' TV show host.

Papa Elf will always be an iconic character. (Warner Bros.)

But before he began the star we knew and loved, he was actually an accountant.

“Somehow there’s a connection between numbers and music and comedy. I don’t know what it is, but I know it’s there,” he previously said in an interview with a college business professor.

“I know it’s a case of 2 and 2 equals 5 in terms of a comedian. You take this fact and you take that fact and then you come up with this ludicrous fact.”

Newhart also made appearances in Horrible Bosses, Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons and Young Sheldon.