Autographed AFTRA Engagement Contract: Hand-Signed by Bob Newhart (Circus of the Stars 1981)
This entry showcases an authentic, primary-source piece of American comedy history, broadcast television lore, and vintage entertainment contract ephemera: an official printed AFTRA single-television broadcast engagement contract, hand-signed on the execution line by Primetime Emmy and Grammy Award-winning comedian and actor Bob Newhart.
Renowned for his iconic deadpan delivery and masterful telephone monologue routines, Bob Newhart (1929–2024) stands among the most celebrated figures in television history. After his 1960 comedy album The Button-Minded Works of Bob Newhart became a massive worldwide sensation—winning Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and Best New Artist—Newhart conquered American television starring in two legendary sitcoms: The Bob Newhart Show (1972–1978) and Newhart (1982–1990). Inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, Newhart received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2002.
Dated September 24, 1981, this official Standard AFTRA Engagement Contract between Bob Newhart Ent. (f/s/o Bob Newhart) and Bob Stivers Associates ("Producer") formalizes Newhart's appearance on the popular CBS television special Circus of the Stars VI. Executed for a performance taped at Caesar's Palace Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, the contract details a principal performer classification for a salary compensation sum of $50,000.
On the "Performer" line, Bob Newhart has rendered a bold signature in dark ink:
"Bob Newhart"
The document is countersigned on the producer line by a representative for Bob Stivers Associates.
Accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity document issued by Everything Entertainment (signed by owner Gerry Bondell), fully confirming the genuine status of Newhart's signature.
Preserved in fine vintage condition on standard document paper stock, featuring crisp typing, clear performance location details, horizontal folding creases, and a sharp signature, this contract serves as an essential centerpiece for comedy archivists, broadcast television collectors, and Bob Newhart displays.
Contract Specifications
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OFFICIAL 1981 AFTRA ENGAGEMENT CONTRACT: Authentic printed television contract for Bob Newhart's appearance on Circus of the Stars VI.
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LAS VEGAS BROADCAST EPHEMERA: Issued under Bob Newhart Ent. for a $50,000 appearance taped at Caesar's Palace Hotel.
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EXCELLENT VINTAGE CONDITION: Preserved in fine condition with clear document paper stock, sharp typing, and light handling folds.
Autograph Specifications & Provenance
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HAND-SIGNED BY BOB NEWHART: Authentically autographed in dark ink ("Bob Newhart") on the performer line by Bob Newhart.
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EVERYTHING ENTERTAINMENT COA: Fully verified with an official Certificate of Authenticity document issued by Everything Entertainment.
