Coralie Figueroa

Written by Coralie Figueroa

Modified & Updated: 28 Apr 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

38-facts-about-carol-burnett
Source: Hollywoodreporter.com

Carol Burnett is an iconic figure in the world of entertainment. With her distinctive charm, quick wit, and unparalleled comedic timing, she has captivated audiences for decades. From her legendary variety show, “The Carol Burnett Show,” to her numerous film and stage performances, Burnett has established herself as a true trailblazer in the industry.

In this article, we will uncover 38 fascinating facts about Carol Burnett that showcase her incredible talent, personal life, and lasting impact on popular culture. From her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom, we will delve into the life of this legendary entertainer and explore the many reasons why she holds a special place in the hearts of millions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Carol Burnett, a legendary actress and comedian, has won numerous awards, including 22 Primetime Emmy Awards for “The Carol Burnett Show,” and has left an indelible mark on Hollywood with her star on the Walk of Fame.
  • Known for her iconic ear tug and Tarzan yell, Carol Burnett’s physical comedy style and genuine charm have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world, inspiring audiences with her timeless humor and philanthropic efforts.
Table of Contents

Carol Burnett was born on April 26, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas.

Carol Burnett, a legendary actress and comedian, was born in San Antonio, Texas, on April 26, She is widely known for her versatile talents and her contributions to the entertainment industry.

She discovered her love for performing at an early age.

At the tender age of 5, Carol Burnett discovered her passion for performing and would frequently entertain her family members and friends with her comedic skits and impressions.

Burnett attended UCLA and studied theater arts.

To further hone her acting skills, Carol Burnett enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and studied theater arts. This laid the foundation for her successful career in the performing arts.

She made her Broadway debut in 1959.

In 1959, Carol Burnett made her Broadway debut in the musical comedy “Once Upon a Mattress,” where she received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Princess Winnifred. This marked the beginning of her flourishing career on stage.

The Carol Burnett Show premiered in 1967.

One of Carol Burnett’s most iconic achievements is “The Carol Burnett Show,” a variety sketch comedy program that premiered on CBS in The show captivated audiences with its hilarious sketches, musical numbers, and guest appearances from renowned celebrities.

She won numerous Emmy Awards for her work on The Carol Burnett Show.

Throughout the run of “The Carol Burnett Show,” Carol Burnett received a total of 22 Primetime Emmy Awards, making her one of the most decorated performers in television history.

Carol Burnett starred in several successful films.

In addition to her achievements on television, Carol Burnett also had a successful career in films. Some of her notable films include “The Four Seasons,” “Annie,” and “Noises Off,” where she showcased her exceptional comedic timing and acting prowess.

She received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2003.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the arts, Carol Burnett received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors in This esteemed award celebrated her lifelong dedication to entertaining audiences.

Burnett published her memoir, “One More Time,” in 1986.

Sharing her life experiences and insights, Carol Burnett released her memoir, “One More Time,” in The book provided an intimate look into her personal journey and the hurdles she overcame to achieve success.

Carol Burnett has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In honor of her remarkable achievements in the entertainment industry, Carol Burnett was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in This star rightfully commemorates her indelible mark on Hollywood.

She founded the Carrie Hamilton Theatre at the Pasadena Playhouse.

In memory of her daughter, Carrie Hamilton, Carol Burnett founded the Carrie Hamilton Theatre at the Pasadena Playhouse. The theater serves as a platform for aspiring young actors to showcase their talent.

Carol Burnett received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.

In 2005, Carol Burnett was bestowed with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This prestigious award acknowledged her immense contributions to both the entertainment industry and charitable endeavors.

She has guest-starred on many popular television shows.

Over the years, Carol Burnett has made memorable guest appearances on numerous television shows, including “Glee,” “Mad About You,” and “Law & Order: SVU.” Her appearances always bring a touch of humor and brilliance to each episode.

Burnett has been an advocate for literacy and education.

Carol Burnett has used her platform to advocate for literacy and education. She has been involved in various charitable organizations and campaigns aimed at promoting reading and providing educational opportunities for children.

She received the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2013.

Recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field of comedy, Carol Burnett was honored with the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in This prestigious award celebrated her remarkable talent and impact on the comedic landscape.

Carol Burnett has a unique ear tug gesture.

During each episode of “The Carol Burnett Show,” Carol Burnett would end the show by tugging her ear as a signal to her grandmother, who had raised her, expressing her love and gratitude.

She won a Tony Award for her role in “Moon Over Buffalo.”

In 1996, Carol Burnett won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her outstanding performance in the Broadway production of “Moon Over Buffalo.” Her incredible comedic timing and stage presence brought her character to life.

Carol Burnett received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2019 Golden Globe Awards.

As a testament to her enduring impact on the world of entertainment, Carol Burnett received the prestigious Golden Globe Lifetime Achievement Award in This award highlighted her remarkable career and the indelible mark she has left in the industry.

She is known for her iconic Tarzan yell.

One of Carol Burnett’s most recognizable features is her signature Tarzan yell. The yell, which she incorporated into her comedy sketches, became a beloved trademark of her performances.

Carol Burnett has received honorary doctorates from various universities.

In recognition of her contributions to the arts and her philanthropic efforts, Carol Burnett has been awarded honorary doctorates from several esteemed universities, including Dartmouth College, UCLA, and Mount Holyoke College.

She has been inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.

In 1985, Carol Burnett was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as one of the most influential and iconic figures in television history.

Carol Burnett has been married three times.

Throughout her life, Carol Burnett has been married three times. Her marriages were to Don Saroyan, Joe Hamilton, and Brian Miller.

She has a strong Broadway presence.

In addition to her successful Broadway debut, Carol Burnett has had a strong presence on the Broadway stage. She has starred in productions such as “Love Letters,” “Putting It Together,” and “Fade Out – Fade In.”

Carol Burnett was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to American culture and the performing arts, Carol Burnett was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018 by President Barack Obama. The award highlighted her remarkable career and influence on generations of entertainers.

She has received the Peabody Award.

Carol Burnett was honored with the prestigious Peabody Award for her work on “The Carol Burnett Show.” This award recognizes excellence in broadcasting and is a testament to her groundbreaking contributions to television comedy.

Carol Burnett is an accomplished author.

In addition to her memoir, Carol Burnett has authored several books, including “This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection” and “In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox.

She has been an advocate for cancer research.

After the passing of her daughter, Carrie Hamilton, from cancer, Carol Burnett became an advocate for cancer research and supports organizations dedicated to finding a cure for this devastating disease.

Carol Burnett hosted the Academy Awards three times.

Throughout her career, Carol Burnett had the honor of hosting the Academy Awards three times, bringing her unique charm and wit to Hollywood’s most prestigious event.

She received the Kennedy Center Honors for Lifetime Artistic Achievement in 2003.

Carol Burnett received the Kennedy Center Honors for Lifetime Artistic Achievement in 2003, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the arts and her impact on the world of entertainment.

Carol Burnett’s comedy style is known for its physicality.

Carol Burnett is renowned for her physical comedy style, which involves exaggerated movements, facial expressions, and gestures that never fail to elicit laughter from audiences.

She has been honored with a SAG Life Achievement Award.

In recognition of her remarkable career and contributions to the acting profession, Carol Burnett received the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Life Achievement Award in 2016.

Carol Burnett is an honorary member of the Brown University Theatre.

For her significant contributions to the world of entertainment, Carol Burnett was named an honorary member of the Brown University Theatre.

She has made cameo appearances in various television shows and films.

Carol Burnett has made memorable cameo appearances in popular television shows and films, including “The Muppet Movie,” “Hawaii Five-O,” and “Hot in Cleveland,” delighting audiences with her comedic talent.

Carol Burnett has been a vocal advocate for arts education.

Recognizing the importance of arts education, Carol Burnett has been a vocal advocate for providing access to arts programs in schools. She believes in nurturing young talent and inspiring creativity through arts education initiatives.

She received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

In 2013, Carol Burnett was awarded the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, honoring her exceptional comedic talent and lasting impact on the world of comedy.

Carol Burnett has starred in several successful television specials.

Aside from her iconic television series, Carol Burnett has starred in numerous successful television specials, showcasing her comedic brilliance and musical talents.

She has received the Women in Film Crystal + Lucy Award.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the film industry, Carol Burnett was honored with the Women in Film Crystal + Lucy Award, which celebrates women who have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment.

Carol Burnett continues to make occasional television appearances.

Even though she is not actively involved in regular television programming, Carol Burnett continues to make occasional television appearances, delighting audiences with her timeless humor and charm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carol Burnett is an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. Her talent, wit, and charm have captivated audiences for decades. From her humble beginnings to the heights of her success, she has remained a beloved and respected figure. Whether through her groundbreaking television show, her unforgettable characters, or her philanthropic work, Carol Burnett has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Her influence continues to be felt today, and her legacy as a comedy legend will forever be remembered.

FAQs

Q: When was Carol Burnett born?

A: Carol Burnett was born on April 26, 1933.

Q: What is Carol Burnett’s most famous television show?

A: “The Carol Burnett Show” is Carol Burnett’s most famous television show. It aired from 1967 to 1978 and showcased her incredible comedic talent.

Q: Has Carol Burnett won any awards?

A: Yes, Carol Burnett has won numerous awards throughout her career, including multiple Emmys, a Golden Globe, and the Kennedy Center Honors.

Q: Is Carol Burnett still active in the entertainment industry?

A: While Carol Burnett is not as active in recent years, she continues to make occasional appearances and is involved in various philanthropic endeavors.

Q: Has Carol Burnett written any books?

A: Yes, Carol Burnett has written several books, including her memoir “One More Time: A Memoir” and a children’s book called “Carrie and Me: A Mother-Daughter Love Story.”

Q: Does Carol Burnett have any children?

A: Yes, Carol Burnett has three children named Carrie Hamilton, Jody Hamilton, and Erin Hamilton.

Q: Did Carol Burnett have any influential collaborations in her career?

A: Carol Burnett had a famous collaboration with comedians Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Tim Conway on “The Carol Burnett Show,” which resulted in some of the most memorable comedy sketches in television history.

Intrigued by Carol Burnett's incredible life and career? Continue exploring the lives of her talented co-stars from "The Carol Burnett Show." Learn about Lyle Waggoner's multifaceted career beyond the iconic sketch comedy series. Discover the hilarious antics and improvisational genius of Tim Conway, who never failed to make his fellow cast members break character. Finally, delve into the impressive achievements of Vicki Lawrence, who not only starred alongside Burnett but also found success in music and other television roles.

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