Tom Smothers, half of the famed Smothers Brothers comedy and music duo, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 86 after battling an aggressive form of cancer. The news of his death was announced by his family and the National Comedy Center on Wednesday. Tom's brother, Dick Smothers, expressed his grief in a statement, describing Tom as not only a loving older brother but also a one-of-a-kind creative partner. The duo had been together for over 60 years, both on and off stage, and their relationship grew stronger with time.

The Smothers Brothers were known for their fearless approach to comedy, using their platform to challenge authority and tackle controversial subjects. In the 1960s, when media was generally cautious and confrontation-averse, Tom and Dick were unafraid to poke fun at the powerful and advocate for causes such as the opposition to the Vietnam War and civil rights. Their groundbreaking show, "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," debuted in 1967 on CBS. However, due to its consistently provocative content, the network decided to cancel the show in April 1969.

Reflecting on their role in pop culture history, the Smothers Brothers maintained a humorous perspective. In a 2019 event commemorating the 50th anniversary of their firing, Tom jokingly remarked that it was an honor to be honored, especially since they were both alive to speak for themselves. He emphasized their ability to express their own thoughts and opinions, even if they were sometimes mumbled.

Looking back at the controversy surrounding their show's cancellation, Dick Smothers believed that their comedy was relatively benign despite the backlash it received. He expressed his belief that telling a comedian not to say a certain word would only encourage them to do so. He acknowledged that although their material may seem tame by today's standards, it was considered volatile at the time.

Even in 2004, Tom Smothers expressed doubts about the acceptance of frank political discourse on prime-time television. He observed that while explicit language, sex, and violence were prevalent on TV, there was a lack of meaningful social commentary. Tom, born on February 2, 1937, on Governors Island in New York, questioned whether American audiences were ready to handle such discussions.

The passing of Tom Smothers marks the end of an era in comedy and activism. With their unique blend of humor and social commentary, the Smothers Brothers left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Tom will be remembered not only as a talented performer but also as a fearless advocate for change.