Gene Shalit is a retired journalist, author, and television personality who has been a fixture on NBC’s The Today Show since appearing on the series part-time in the 1970s. Known for his iconic facial hair and comical personality, Shalit ingrained himself as a part of American pop culture before retiring in 2010. Sadly, his wife Nancy Lewis passed away from cancer in 1978, and the larger-than-life entertainer never remarried.In the latest news about the beloved daytime host, Gene Shalit turned 100 years old on March 25. The Today show panel celebrated his milestone birthday with some kind words from Al Roker,"This is so, so, special to all of us here at The Today Show family and our viewers who remember. Happy 100th birthday to Today Show legend Gene Shalit. That’s right. Hailing from Morristown, New Jersey, a prominent presence here at Today for 41 years."Roker then elaborated on some of Shalit's standout moments throughout the years,"He started in 1969. He reviewed films, plays, books, so much more. He is ringing in 100 by enjoying that fresh air of the Berkshires with his 6 kids, 5 grandchildren, and getting ready to watch his beloved New York Mets as they gear up for opening day. He looks fantastic”It’s clear that the entire panel and network have a tremendous amount of respect for Gene Shalit, whose impact on the program over the years has been admittedly undeniable.Today Show Cast Salutes Gene Shalit on his birthday, moreAl Roker's tribute to Gene Shalit also focused on some specific interviews that demonstrated how his style and process truly set him apart.“He interviewed established stars like Carol Channing…Gene could pull out from people so much to the point that Gene actually lost it almost. And then he uh interviewed a cast of unknowns, I don’t know whatever happened to them. I think they were in this little movie called Star Wars. It’s really amazing. And not even Sofia Loren could resist putting her hands through Gene’s hair.”Interestingly, Gene Shalit was referenced several times across pop culture due to his personality and looks. He has even been referenced on Seth MacFarlane's animated comedy juggernaut, Family Guy, on numerous occasions, perhaps making his name known to younger audiences who were not aware of his illustrious 40-year career in media.For more on this story or other developing news, check out Soap Central.