Laughter and the connection shared with a great team make moments truly delightful.
Aging is a blessing, and Carol sees age as just a number, feeling younger inside than her 90 years suggest.
Persistence, accepting rejection, and creating opportunities are essential for success in show business.
Deep dives
The Power of Laughter and Deep Soul-Rocking Laughter
Laughing is seen as a wonderful gift from the gods, and there is nothing better than laughing so hard with someone that you cry. Laughter can be surprising and sneaks up on you, especially the kind that is uncontrollable and happens at inappropriate times, like funerals. As a performer, deep laughter can arise during a comedic scene, making it impossible to control. It is a joyful expression of being part of a successful team. The connection and laughter shared with a great team and friends are what make moments truly delightful.
A Beautiful Outlook on Aging and the Passing of Time
Carol Burnett shares her perspective on aging, believing that having all her parts, including her hips, knees, and brain, is a true blessing. She sees age as just another number and feels younger inside than her 90 years suggest. Carol reflects on how our perception of aging has evolved over time and appreciates the idea that 90 can be the new 60. She also acknowledges fellow entertainers like Norman Lear, Dick Van Dyke, and Mel Brooks, who continue to thrive in their 90s, suggesting that being in show business may have something to do with it. Laughing and making people laugh are part of Carol's journey and she attributes it to feeling blissful and floating, akin to being high.
Creating Opportunities and Making Your Own Breaks
Carol Burnett shares her journey of making it in show business through persistence and creating opportunities for herself. From seeking out famous interview subjects while in high school, to putting on her own show for agents and producers, Carol showed determination in pursuing her passion. She also emphasizes the importance of accepting rejection and understanding that ups and downs are part of life. Carol's experiences with her daughter's addiction taught her how to accept and cope with endings, and she encourages others to hold on to hope and make their own breaks in order to find success and happiness.
The Power of Camaraderie and Generosity
Carol Burnett shares how she learned the importance of camaraderie and generosity from her experience on the Gary Moore show. She emphasizes the belief that everyone on the show should shine and support one another, creating a rep company atmosphere. This belief extended to her own show where she wanted all her cast members to shine before she did. Burnett highlights the joy and fun that comes from working together and the importance of not taking oneself too seriously.
Handling Confrontation and Prioritizing Kindness
Burnett recounts a story about how she handled a situation with her co-star Harvey Korman, who was being short and rude to a guest on the show. Recognizing the importance of treating guests with kindness, Burnett confronted Korman and gave him an ultimatum. She shares her aversion to confrontation but emphasizes the need to address certain issues. Burnett also reveals that while she avoided scolding writers for underwhelming material, she would seek their help to improve sketches, highlighting her collaborative approach.
On the season finale of Wiser Than Me, Julia sits down in person with 90-year-old groundbreaking actress, comedian, and writer Carol Burnett. Carol tells Julia how she learned to accept rejection, what Lucille Ball taught her about being a boss, and how a spontaneous ride on a beer truck led to her landing a CBS special with Julie Andrews. And Carol gives Julia a compliment that makes Julia cry, which leads to a touching conversation between Julia and her mom Judith.
