Lyle Wagoner is “interrogated” by German soldiers played by Harvey Korman and Tim Conway and the result is pure comedy gold.
This sketch is a perfect example of Tim Conway’s comedic genius!
Thank goodness for YouTube, which serves as a global archive of film and television history.
Carol Burnett, along with Tim Conway and Harvey Korman, had a remarkable ability to make America laugh with their unique way of crazy, grotesque humor.
Their comedy remains as funny today as it was when the show originally aired. CBS’s comedy and musical variety shows were so popular that there was a popular joke in the television industry at the time that CBS stood for “The Carol Burnett Show.”
It was filmed in front of a live studio audience, and part of the magic was hearing the uncontrollable laughter of the audience after every beat. Carol added a personal touch by interacting with the audience between sketches, often responding to requests for her famous Tarzan scream.
Over an impressive 279 episodes, the show won 25 Emmy Awards and eight Golden Globes. Carol Burnett herself has taken home more People’s Choice Awards than any other actress, and Time magazine named the series one of the 100 greatest TV shows of all time.
The show aired from 1967 to 1978 and was renewed in 1991 for nine new episodes. This also led to the spin-off sitcom *Mama’s Family*, in which Vicki and Harvey reprised their roles from the *Carol Burnett Show*.
In this particular sketch, when Tim Conway pulls out the puppet, Lyle’s expression says it all: “I should have called in sick.” At 6:37 you can see Lyle starting to lose his cool. This may very well be the only time Lyle breaks character. Tim Conway’s talent is timeless and remains one of the greatest comedians of all time. Don’t miss this hilarious sketch in the video below!
Finally, the sketch with Lyle Waggoner, Tim Conway, and Harvey Korman is a shining example of the brilliance that made *The Carol Burnett Show* a cultural phenomenon. Tim Conway’s ability to make his co-stars, especially Lyle Waggoner, break character with his infectious humor is a testament to his unique comedic timing and skill. This moment captures the magic of the show – where improvisation and physical comedy collide to create timeless moments of laughter.
The enduring popularity of *The Carol Burnett Show* speaks to the strength of the cast and their unique ability to connect with audiences. Carol Burnett, along with Conway and Korman, has mastered the art of slapstick and farce, delivering humor that transcends generations. Recorded in front of a live studio audience, their skits not only showcased their comedic talent but also created a sense of intimacy that allowed the audience to feel like they were part of the fun.
With an impressive 279 episodes, *The Carol Burnett Show* has become more than just a television program; it has become a cornerstone of American comedy. Its impact is still felt today as new audiences discover the show through platforms like YouTube, where the classic sketches live on.
The mix of wit, heart, and spontaneous humor continues to inspire and entertain, proving that great comedy, like the genius of Tim Conway, is truly timeless. Whether through unforgettable characters, iconic moments, or the cast’s infectious laughter, *The Carol Burnett Show* remains a beloved classic in television history.