I don't know how many sacred cows there are today. I think there's a little confusion between humor and gross passing for humor. That's kind of regrettable.

In this quote, Bob Newhart addresses the blurred lines between humor and what he perceives as "gross passing for humor." He suggests that there may be some confusion today about what qualifies as true humor, implying that some comedy that is considered humorous might actually be crude, offensive, or lacking in subtlety. Newhart’s comment reflects his concern that the standard for humor has shifted, and what might have been considered tasteful or clever in the past might now be overshadowed by more extreme or vulgar forms of comedy.

The phrase "sacred cows" refers to ideas or practices that are considered beyond criticism or change, often within a cultural or societal context. Newhart uses this phrase to suggest that humor, traditionally respected for its wit and cleverness, may now be getting lost in the push for shock value or over-the-top comedy. His remark implies that some once-untouchable norms surrounding humor are being questioned or disregarded, resulting in a shift that he finds regrettable.

By contrasting true humor with what he refers to as "gross passing for humor," Newhart expresses a preference for comedy that is intelligent and sophisticated rather than relying on shock tactics or offensive content. He laments the loss of comedy that makes people think, rather than just relying on crudeness to elicit laughs. This reflects his own style of humor, which often uses dry wit and subtlety, avoiding the extremes that some modern comedic trends embrace.

Ultimately, Bob Newhart's quote is a commentary on the evolution of comedy, suggesting that the essence of humor should be more about intelligence and nuance rather than sensationalism. He is reflecting on a shift in the comedic landscape, where the quality of humor may be getting overshadowed by more provocative or vulgar forms of entertainment.