The 84-year-old wept as he was honored at the creative arts Emmy ceremony for his role as Professor Proton on the hit show.
"This is my seventh shot at this. … I just love this very much," he said, gazing tearfully at the trophy in his hand.
Newhart, a comedy icon, got a standing ovation when his name was announced.
"The Bob Newhart Show" was a Saturday night staple in the 1970s.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.