Bob Newhart to star in Hallmark Channel film

NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) - Bob Newhart will return to television in August as the star of "Herb's Murders," a movie that will air on the Hallmark Channel.

The veteran comic will play a Los Angeles detective who investigates a publisher's killing along with his daughter, also a police officer.

Newhart, 78, famed for his low-key comedic delivery, was a ubiquitous presence on TV during the 1970s and 1980s with "The Bob Newhart Show" and "Newhart." He recently made guest appearances on such shows as "ER" and "Desperate Housewives."

Hallmark Channel announced Newhart's movie during its "upfront" presentation to advertisers. Network CEO Henry Schleiff reminded attendees that Hallmark's core demographic -- baby boomers and those older than 40 -- has "assets, not allowances."

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter