Artists & Writers · Late 20th Century

Bob Ross’s Last Words

October 29, 1942 July 4, 1995 Age 52 American
Let's make some happy little trees.
— Bob Ross, July 4, 1995

Who Was Bob Ross?

Bob Ross was the host of The Joy of Painting on PBS from 1983-1994, an American icon known for his gentle demeanor and 'happy little trees.'

The Final Moments

Ross died at his home in New Smyrna Beach, Florida from lymphoma.

Are These Words Verified?

⚠ Low Confidence

This is Ross's famous TV catchphrase, not his actual last words. His true final words at death in 1995 were never publicly documented by family or witnesses.

Sources

  • other The Joy of Painting catchphrase

Legacy

Ross's gentle style has experienced a massive resurgence; his episodes are among the most streamed legacy content.

Joy of PaintingPBSpainterhappy little treesAmerican icon

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Bob Ross’s last words?

“Let's make some happy little trees.”

How did Bob Ross die?

Bob Ross died on July 4, 1995 at the age of 52. Cause of death: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Were Bob Ross’s last words documented?

This is Ross's famous TV catchphrase, not his actual last words. His true final words at death in 1995 were never publicly documented by family or witnesses.