Carol Burnett is 88 years young today! Throughout her amazing career, she has been a trailblazer in so many ways. You can see her in literally everything, from television, film, and theater, she’s done it all. To honor her today, we’re looking back at just 5 of the countless ways she has become a legend.
The Carol Burnett Show
The actress hosted her own variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, starting in 1967. Originally she was approached to be a part of comedy series but had a stipulation in her ten-year contract that stated she had five years from the date The Garry Moore Show ended to “push the button” on hosting thirty-one-hour episodes of a music/comedy variety show. Variety shows were commonly hosted by men, and initially, CBS didn’t want Burnett to host one for just that reason. She not only proved that women could be successful in this area, but she kept the show going for 11 years winning 23 Emmy awards, and being nominated for countless awards every year.
She Discovered Vicki Lawrence
Vicki Lawrence, who most know from her role on Mama’s Family, was actually discovered by Burnett after writing a fan letter to the star. She was so touched by the letter that she showed up at a pageant Lawrence was competing in. The two became friends and eventually, Burnett got Lawrence’s career and started putting her on her variety show.
She Was Mentored by Lucille Ball
If Burnett’s career wasn’t iconic enough, she was mentored by the late great Lucille Ball. The two met after Ball guested on Burnett’s tv special Carol+2. Burnett then also guested on The Lucy Show. The two stayed close friends until Ball’s death in 1989.
Her Career Has Spanned 65 Years
Burnett started her acting career in 1955 and her most recent credit being in 2020. Throughout that time she has won 6 Golden Globes, 6 Emmys, 8 People’s Choice Awards, 1 Grammy Award, 1 SAG Award, and many others. That also doesn’t include the numerous amounts of nominations.
She Has An Award Named After Her
While many have won awards, few have had the honor of having an award named after them. The Carol Burnett Award is an honorary Golden Globe Award for “outstanding contributions to television on or off the screen.” It was created in 2019 with Burnett being awarded the very first one.
These are just 5 of the countless reasons that Burnett has earned her place in history as Hollywood royalty. We can’t wait to continue to watch what she does in the future and want to thank her for all she has done for the film, television, theater, and women.
Happy birthday Carol!
