Carol Burnett Hosts TCM Nov. 27, 28

Comic legend Carol Burnett presents some of her favorite films as she hosts two nights on Turner Classic Movies starting Thanksgiving night.

Beginning at 8pm on Thursday night and continuing Friday, Burnett acts as TCM host and will present some of her favorite films, including many that were spoofed on her legendary series, “The Carol Burnett Show,” which ran from 1967 to 1978.

Here is the schedule. In addition to the movies, look for clips from Burnett’s show where she spoofed the films.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

8:00 PM Little Miss Broadway (1938)
9:30 PM Top Hat (1935)
11:30 PM Show Boat (1951)

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 28
8:00 PM Sweet Rosie O’Grady (1943)
9:30 PM Three Little Words (1950)
11:30 PM 42nd Street (1933)

See the TCM announcement for more details. For clips of Burnett’s show, visit the Carol Burnett Show (official) on Facebook.

Below is a clip from Burnett’s parody of Shirley Temple in Little Miss Broadway (1938).

About Carol Burnett

Carol Burnett is one of America’s most beloved entertainers, celebrated for her groundbreaking variety show and her enduring influence on comedy and television. Her career spans nearly eight decades, marked by humor, resilience, and a deep connection with audiences across generations.

1. Early Life

Carol Creighton Burnett was born on April 26, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas. Her childhood was marked by hardship, as her parents struggled with alcoholism and eventually divorced. Raised primarily by her grandmother in Los Angeles, Burnett found solace in performance and storytelling, which would later shape her career.

2. Education and First Steps

Burnett attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she initially studied journalism before switching to theater arts. A scholarship and a small financial gift from a benefactor allowed her to pursue acting in New York City, a pivotal move that launched her career.

3. Broadway Breakthrough

Her Broadway debut came in the musical Once Upon a Mattress (1959), where her comedic timing and expressive face won over audiences. This role established her as a rising star and showcased her ability to blend humor with genuine warmth.

4. Television Beginnings

Burnett’s television career began with appearances on The Garry Moore Show, where her comedic sketches and musical performances gained national attention. Her recurring role on the show earned her an Emmy Award and set the stage for her own program.

5. The Carol Burnett Show

In 1967, Burnett debuted The Carol Burnett Show, a variety program that ran for 11 seasons until 1978. The show combined sketch comedy, musical numbers, and guest appearances, becoming a cultural touchstone. Burnett’s signature ear-tug at the end of each episode was a personal salute to her grandmother.

6. Iconic Characters

The show introduced audiences to unforgettable characters such as Eunice Harper Higgins in “The Family” sketches and parodies like “Went With the Wind!” Burnett’s ability to embody both absurd comedy and heartfelt emotion made her performances timeless.

7. Awards and Recognition

Burnett’s career has been showered with accolades: seven Emmy Awards, six Golden Globes, a Tony Award, and a Grammy Award. She has also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award, cementing her legacy.

8. Later Career and Dramatic Roles

Beyond comedy, Burnett proved her versatility with dramatic roles in films like Annie (1982), where she played Miss Hannigan. She continued to appear in television and stage productions, demonstrating her enduring talent and adaptability.

9. Personal Life

Burnett has been married three times and is the mother of three daughters, including actress and writer Carrie Hamilton, who passed away in 2002. Her resilience in the face of personal loss has inspired many, and she often speaks candidly about balancing career and family.

10. Legacy

Carol Burnett’s influence on comedy and television is immeasurable. As one of the first women to host a variety show, she paved the way for future generations of female comedians. Her blend of slapstick, satire, and heartfelt storytelling continues to resonate, ensuring her place as a true icon of American entertainment.

In summary, Carol Burnett’s journey from a difficult childhood to becoming a trailblazing entertainer reflects both her talent and perseverance. Her laughter, characters, and warmth have left an indelible mark on television history.

Sources: Wikipedia, TCM

Complete TCM Schedule, Highlights

Below is a preview of what’s on TCM in November 2025.

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