The Essential 15: Unforgettable Carol Burnett Performances That Will Make You Laugh and Cry

1. The Carol Burnett Show 1967，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 7418, ID: 0061240
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Carol Burnett’s performance in ‘The Carol Burnett Show’ is a classic example of her comedic genius. Her ability to bring laughter and joy to the audience through her skits and impersonations was unparalleled. The show was a variety show, which is now a lost art, and Carol, along with her ensemble cast, always delivered a great show. Her film takeoffs were particularly memorable.
2. The Four Seasons (1981) 2021，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 15409972
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In ‘The Four Seasons’, Carol Burnett plays the role of Kate Burroughs, a level-headed character opposite Alan Alda. Her performance offers a glimpse into various mid-life crises, the loss of youthful vigor, and the increasing delicacy of our aging bodies. It’s a serio-comic film about three middle-aged couples who vacation together, then struggle when one of the husbands dumps his wife for a younger woman.
3. Once Upon a Mattress 1964，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 139, ID: 0424325
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Carol Burnett’s performance in ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ is a delightful discovery. As the ‘shy’ princess Winifred, Burnett swims the moat when she discovers that there’s an opening for a princess. This version is closer to the Broadway show than Carol’s 1972 TV production. Carol is perfect as Winnifred, and the rest of the cast are also in top form.
4. Annie 1982，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 50015, ID: 0083564
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In the 1982 musical comedy-drama film ‘Annie’, Carol Burnett plays the role of Miss Hannigan. The film is based on the Little Orphan Annie comic strip created by Harold Gray. Burnett’s performance as the gin-loving, man-chasing Miss Hannigan is one of her most memorable roles.
5. Noises Off… 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 12567, ID: 0105017
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In ‘Noises Off…’, Carol Burnett stars as Dotty Otley, a star actress who is quickly passing her prime. The film is a comedy about an eccentric group of stage actors, and Burnett’s performance adds to the hilarity and chaos of the on-stage and off-stage antics.
6. Pete ‘n’ Tillie 1972，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 1177, ID: 0069080
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In ‘Pete ‘n’ Tillie’, Carol Burnett delivers a performance that is both hilarious and heartbreaking. Her portrayal of Tillie, a woman who falls for a womanizing Pete (Walter Matthau), is a testament to her versatility as an actress. The film skillfully balances high comedy and bittersweet drama, making it a unique piece of 1970s cinema.
7. Friendly Fire 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 470, ID: 0079177
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Carol Burnett’s performance in ‘Friendly Fire’ is nothing short of brilliant. She plays Peg Mullen, a mother who challenges the US military’s account of her son’s death in Vietnam. Burnett’s portrayal of a grieving mother turned war activist is powerful and moving, making ‘Friendly Fire’ a poignant look at the human cost of war.
8. The Front Page 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 15519, ID: 0071524
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In ‘The Front Page’, Carol Burnett shines in a supporting role. The film, a black comedy-drama about newspaper reporters on the crime beat, benefits from Burnett’s comedic timing and charm. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, Burnett’s performance stands out, adding a touch of warmth to the cynical world of news media.
9. The Wedding Singer 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 163806, ID: 0120888
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‘The Wedding Singer’ is a delightful romantic comedy that doesn’t feature Carol Burnett. However, it’s worth mentioning for its nostalgic look at the 1980s and the charming performances of its leads, Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore.
10. Horton Hears a Who! 2008，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 151283, ID: 0451079
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In ‘Horton Hears a Who!’, Carol Burnett lends her voice to the character of Kangaroo. The film, a CGI adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved children’s book, is a visual treat. Burnett’s voice acting adds depth to her character, making Kangaroo more than just a villain.
11. Mad About You 1992，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 25357, ID: 0103484
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Carol Burnett’s performance as Theresa Stemple in ‘Mad About You’ is a delightful blend of humor and warmth. Her portrayal of Jamie’s mother added a layer of depth to the show, making it more relatable and engaging. Her comedic timing and expressive acting brought the character to life, making her a memorable part of the series.
12. Desperate Housewives: The Game 2006，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 164, ID: 0808228
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In ‘Desperate Housewives: The Game’, Carol Burnett doesn’t appear as a character, but the game itself provides an engaging and interactive experience for fans of the TV series. It’s a unique blend of simulation and adventure, with a storyline that mirrors the drama and intrigue of the show.
13. Glee Spoofs 2010，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 17, ID: 3678336
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While Carol Burnett doesn’t appear in ‘Glee Spoofs’, the series itself is a humorous parody of the original ‘Glee’ show. It uses animation and comedy to recreate the drama and musical performances of the original series, providing a light-hearted and entertaining viewing experience.
14. Law and Order: Really Special Victims Unit 2009，IMDB Rating: 5.6, IMDB Votes: 295, ID: 1379663
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Carol Burnett’s guest appearance in ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ is considered one of the most iconic in the show’s history. Her portrayal of Birdie Sulloway added a unique twist to the episode, showcasing her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth and complexity to her characters.
15. Hot in Cleveland 2010，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 16180, ID: 1583607
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Carol Burnett’s performance in ‘Hot in Cleveland’ as Penny, Victoria’s mother, is both humorous and touching. Her character, a local TV legend and puppeteer, brings a unique dynamic to the show. Burnett’s comedic timing and expressive acting make her a standout in the series.