US comedian and actor Bob Newhart, best known for his roles in Elf and The Big Bang Theory, has died at the age of 94.

The entertainer 'died at home in Los Angeles' after a series of 'short illnesses' his publicist, Jerry Digney, announced in a statement to the PA news agency.

Newhart was known for the Bob Newhart Show and had a recurring guest role on the sitcom The Big Bang Theory.

In 2013, he won an Emmy for his role playing Arthur Jefferies/Professor Proton in the hit show.

He also played Papa Elf in 2003's Christmas movie Elf, starring Will Ferrell, and Lou Sherman in 2011 comedy Horrible Bosses.

Newhart is survived by four children and numerous grandchildren, according to his publicist.