The Carol Burnett Show (1967–1978)
- Sep 10, 1967
- 2 min read
The Carol Burnett Show is an American sketch comedy-variety series that became a television landmark, celebrated for its brilliant humor, versatile ensemble, and heartfelt performances. Airing on CBS, the show stood out for its innovative sketches, musical numbers, and Carol Burnett’s magnetic presence, blending slapstick, satire, and warmth. Its iconic opening Q&A and timeless comedy made it a cultural treasure.
Created by Carol Burnett and Joe Hamilton, with contributions from writers like Stan Burns and Mike Marmer, the series premiered on September 11, 1967, and its final episode aired on March 29, 1978. Burnett’s vision of a variety show with sharp sketches and relatable humor, inspired by her theater background, resonated widely, earning critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.
Format
Filmed in Los Angeles, The Carol Burnett Show featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest stars, ranging from Lucille Ball to Robin Williams. Signature segments included the “Family” sketches (later spun off into Mama’s Family), movie parodies, and Burnett’s Q&A with the audience, showcasing her warmth and wit. The show explored themes of human quirks, family dynamics, and pop culture, with humor driven by Burnett’s physical comedy, Harvey Korman’s pomposity, and Tim Conway’s improvisation.
Cast
Carol Burnett (host/star)
Harvey Korman (1967–1977)
Vicki Lawrence
Lyle Waggoner (1967–1974)
Tim Conway (recurring early, regular 1975–1978)
Dick Van Dyke (1977, season 10)
Notable guest stars: Jim Nabors, Steve Martin, Betty White
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1967–1968) – 30 episodes
Season 2 (1968–1969) – 26 episodes
Season 3 (1969–1970) – 27 episodes
Season 4 (1970–1971) – 26 episodes
Season 5 (1971–1972) – 24 episodes
Season 6 (1972–1973) – 24 episodes
Season 7 (1973–1974) – 25 episodes
Season 8 (1974–1975) – 24 episodes
Season 9 (1975–1976) – 24 episodes
Season 10 (1976–1977) – 24 episodes
Season 11 (1977–1978) – 24 episodes Total Episodes: 279
Cultural Impact
The Carol Burnett Show became a cultural institution, with Burnett’s ear-tug to her grandmother and sketches like “Went with the Wind!” becoming iconic. Its influence on sketch comedy is seen in shows like Saturday Night Live and The Kids in the Hall. The show’s parodies and Conway’s unscripted antics (often breaking Korman) are legendary. It spawned Mama’s Family and inspired revivals, like 1991 specials. Syndication on MeTV, streaming on Peacock, and clip collections on YouTube keep it alive, with merchandise like DVDs and fan devotion sustaining its legacy.
Honors and Recognition
The Carol Burnett Show won 25 Primetime Emmy Awards, including three for Outstanding Variety Series and eight for Burnett, Korman, and Conway. It earned 70 Emmy nominations and a Peabody Award in 1968. Burnett’s versatility and the ensemble’s chemistry were universally praised, cementing the show’s status as a comedy gold standard.
Conclusion
The Carol Burnett Show remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its brilliant sketches, stellar cast, and Carol Burnett’s comedic genius. Its timeless humor and heartfelt charm ensure its place as a television masterpiece that continues to delight audiences across generations.
Copyright/Disclaimer
Report Errors/Contribute to Site