‘The Carol Burnett Show’ Cast Then and Now: A Celebration of Laughter and Talent
The Carol Burnett Show cast graced television screens from 1967 to 1978. The show was a legendary variety and sketch comedy series that left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Created and hosted by the iconic Carol Burnett, the show featured an ensemble cast of talented actors and comedians who contributed to its enormous success.
The show was famous for its unscripted moments, where cast members would often break character and burst into laughter. These spontaneous moments became some of the show's most beloved highlights.
One of the most notable parts of the Carol Burnett Show was the memorable Q&A segment where Burnett interacted with the live audience, showcasing her improvisational skills and connecting with viewers in a unique way.
The program's musical compositions were crafted by the talented Ken and Mitzie Welch, who worked closely with Burnett to create memorable musical numbers and parodies.
Surprising fact: Burnett ended the series with the 1977/78 season even though CBS wanted to renew it for a twelfth year. Burnett felt that the show had run out of ideas and she wanted to end it while she was still on top.
Related: Saturday Nights on CBS in 1973: The Greatest TV Line-Up Ever
The Carol Burnett show cast
Here, we take a look back at the amazing and beloved actors, actresses, comedians and guest stars that made up The Carol Burnett Show cast
Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett, the woman behind it all, was the heart and soul of the show. Known for her infectious laughter and versatile performances, she charmed audiences with her signature variety program.
After the show concluded, Burnett continued to be a prominent figure in entertainment. She wowed audiences as Miss Hannigan in 1982's Annie and had roles in All My Children and Mad About You. She appeared in Mama's Family and The Carol Burnett Show: A Reunion (1993), where she reunited with some of her former cast members. Next up, she's slated to star in the Apple TV+ series Palm Royale.
Burnett turned 90 in April of 2023. She told People, "I can't wrap my head around it. I still feel like I'm about 11, but I'm amazed. It sure went fast. But I'm glad because I've got all my parts — got my hips, I got my knees and I've got my brain, so I'm happy about that."
Surprising Facts: Carol Burnett's signature ear tug at the end of every episode was a signal to her grandmother that she was sending her love and saying hello.
During her lifetime, Burnett won six Emmys, six Golden Globes, one Grammy and a Kennedy Center Honor. And she's still going strong. We can't wait to see what she does next.
Vicki Lawrence
Vicki Lawrence, known for her portrayal of Mama Thelma Harper in the show's recurring skit, continued her career in television after leaving The Carol Burnett Show cast. She starred in Mama's Family, a spin-off based on her character, which ran from 1983 to 1990.
In addition to her acting career, Vicki Lawrence became a popular game show host, co-hosting Win, Lose or Draw. Most recently, Lawrence starred in the Fox sitcom series The Cool Kids (2018-2019).
Surprising Facts: Vicki Lawrence was 16 years younger than Carol Burnett when she played her mother. Lawrence's character Mama was played with remarkable authenticity, thanks to her striking resemblance to Burnett. Lawrence and Burnett were the only series regulars to stay with the program throughout its 11 seasons.
Tim Conway
Tim Conway's comedic brilliance as part of The Carol Burnett Show cast made him a fan favorite. Additionally, he appeared in various television shows and films, such as The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975) and The Tim Conway Comedy Hour (1970-1971).
He remained a beloved figure in the world of comedy until his passing in 2019.
Surprising Facts: Tim Conway was known for his ability to crack up his co-stars during sketches, often leading to unscripted and uncontrollable laughter on set.
Conway won four Primetime Emmys, including one for writing, during his time on The Carol Burnett Show.
Harvey Korman
Harvey Korman's impeccable comedic timing and versatility made him an essential part of the show's success. In fact, he earned four Emmy Awards during his tenure on the show.
Korman told the New York Times that working on the show was one of the highlights of his career, saying, "We were an ensemble, and Carol had the most incredible attitude. I’ve never worked with a star of that magnitude who was willing to give so much away."
In addition to his role in The Carol Burnett Show cast, he starred in films and television. He collaborated with Mel Brooks in films like Blazing Saddles (1974) and High Anxiety (1977).
He was 81 when he died in 2008.
Surprising fact: After Harvey Korman quit the show, Dick Van Dyke replaced him.
Lyle Waggoner
Lyle Waggoner, the charming and handsome cast member, was best known for his good looks. Waggoner was often the subject of self-deprecating humor on the show, showcasing his willingness to embrace the comedic aspects of making fun of himself.
In addition to being in The Carol Burnett Show cast, Waggoner became famous for playing opposite Lynda Carter as her husband Steve Trevor in Wonder Woman.
Waggoner died in 2020 at the age of 84.
Surprising Fact: In 1973 Waggoner was the centerfold model for the first issue of Playgirl magazine.
The Supporting Cast
In addition to the main cast, The Carol Burnett Show featured a rotating ensemble of talented actors, including Bernadette Peters and Jonathan Winters, who brought their own unique talents to the sketches and musical performances. Plus, many A-list celebrities made guest appearances on The Carol Burnett Show, including Lucille Ball, Bob Hope and Burt Reynolds, enhancing its reputation as a must-see variety show.
The Carol Burnett Show remains a classic in the world of television, defined by its humor, creativity, and the exceptional talents of its cast members.
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