Comedian Tom Smothers of Smothers Brothers dies at 86

"Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner," Dick Smothers said.

By Madeleine Hubbard

Published: December 27, 2023 12:28pm

Updated: December 27, 2023 2:26pm

Comedian Tom Smothers, who was part of the Smothers Brothers singing comedy team with his brother, died Tuesday, according to his family. He was 86.

Dick Smothers, co-star of their "Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," announced that his brother passed away at home with his family following a recent cancer battle, according to the statement published by the National Comedy Center.

"Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner," Dick Smothers said. " I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage – the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed."

Tom Smothers is also known for playing acoustic guitar with John Lennon in his song, "Give Peace a Chance" with the Plastic Ono Band.

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