Bob Newhart to guest star on 'The Big Bang Theory'

Bob Newhart, best known for his 1970s sitcom The Bob Newhart Show, has scored a guest role on the popular CBS comedy The Big Bang Theory.

According to TV Line, the 83-year-old star will portray Professor Proton, a character that used to host Sheldon's favorite childhood television show. Sheldon, who is known for his love of science, eventually finds out that Professor Proton can be hired at parties, so he eagerly decides to invite him to his home.

The Huffington Post reports that Newhart's most recent television appearance was a role on NCIS in 2011. Before that, he was seen on Desperate Housewives and ER. The actor has won a total of six Emmys.

One of the main stars, Jim Parsons (Sheldon), has won two Emmys for his comedic performance and has also nabbed a Golden Globe Award for his role.

The comedy is currently in its sixth season and has been renewed through the 2013-2014 television season.

Newhart's episode will air on May 2 at 8 p.m. on CBS.

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