Carol Creighton Burnett is a legendary American actress, comedian, singer, and writer who has been entertaining audiences for over six decades. She is best known for her Emmy Award-winning variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, which ran for 11 seasons from 1967 to 1978. However, her career extends beyond her work on the show, with numerous film and television appearances, Broadway performances, and philanthropic efforts. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of Carol Burnett's life, from her childhood to her career trajectory, her net worth, and her influence on fan culture.
Carol Burnett's Childhood and Early Influences:
Carol Burnett was born on April 26, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas. She was raised by her grandmother and mother, who both encouraged her love for performing. Burnett's grandmother would often take her to see movies, which fueled her love for comedy and acting. Burnett's mother also recognized her talent and enrolled her in a theater program at UCLA after she graduated high school.
Burnett has cited several comedians as her early influences, including Lucille Ball, Red Skelton, and Imogene Coca. She also credits her grandmother and mother's humor as shaping her comedic sensibility. Burnett's early experiences with poverty and tragedy also informed her humor, with her using comedy as a coping mechanism.
Carol Burnett's Career Trajectory:
Burnett's career began in the 1950s, with appearances on The Paul Winchell Show and The Garry Moore Show. She became a regular on The Gary Moore Show in 1959 and won her first Emmy Award for her performance in 1962. In 1967, Burnett launched her own variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, which ran for 11 seasons and became one of the most beloved shows in television history.
Throughout her career, Burnett has also appeared in numerous films and television shows, including The Four Seasons, Annie, and Mama's Family. She has also had several successful runs on Broadway, including her role as the lead in Once Upon a Mattress in 1959.
In addition to her entertainment career, Burnett has been an active philanthropist, founding the Carol Burnett Fund for Responsible Journalism in 2010, which supports the education and training of journalists.
Carol Burnett's Lifestyle and Houses:
Burnett has been married three times, first to Don Saroyan in 1955, then to Joe Hamilton in 1963, and finally to Brian Miller in 2001. She has three daughters, Carrie, Jody, and Erin, with Hamilton.
Over the years, Burnett has owned several homes, including a luxurious beachfront property in Santa Barbara, California. The home boasts stunning ocean views and a private beach, and it was listed for sale in 2020 for $6.7 million. Burnett also previously owned a Beverly Hills home, which she sold for $11.3 million in 2019.
Carol Burnett's Cares Collection:
Burnett is also known for her passion for collecting antique and rare items, which led her to launch the Cares Collection in 2007. The collection includes clothing, jewelry, and other memorabilia from Hollywood's Golden Age, with proceeds benefiting various charities.
The collection includes iconic items, such as the gown worn by Judy Garland in the "Wizard of Oz" and a coat worn by Elizabeth Taylor in "Giant." The collection has been on display in various museums and galleries, including the Smithsonian Institution and the Paley Center for Media.
Carol Burnett's Net Worth:
Carol Burnett's net worth is estimated to be $45 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This is due to her successful entertainment career, as well as her numerous investments and properties.
Carol Burnett's Legacy and Fan Culture:
Carol Burnett has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, with her comedic timing and talent inspiring generations of performers. Her variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, was groundbreaking in its approach to sketch comedy and has influenced countless comedy shows that followed. Burnett's ability to connect with audiences through humor and relatable characters has earned her a devoted fan base that spans generations.
The Carol Burnett Show has also had a lasting impact on popular culture, with catchphrases and sketches still being referenced and parodied today. For example, the show's famous "Gone with the Wind" parody sketch, which features Burnett wearing a dress made from curtains, has become a cultural touchstone.
Burnett's legacy extends beyond her entertainment career, with her philanthropic efforts and advocacy for responsible journalism also leaving a lasting impact. The Carol Burnett Fund for Responsible Journalism has supported numerous programs that promote ethical and accurate reporting, and Burnett has been vocal in her support of free speech and the First Amendment.
Carol Burnett's Health and Wellness:
Throughout her career, Burnett has been open about her struggles with depression and alcoholism. She has also been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken publicly about her own experiences seeking treatment.
In recent years, Burnett has focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a vegetarian diet and regular exercise. She has also spoken about the importance of staying active and engaged in life, even in her later years.
Conclusion:
Carol Burnett's life and career are a testament to the power of humor and perseverance. From her humble beginnings in Texas to becoming one of the most beloved entertainers of all time, Burnett has inspired generations of performers and fans with her talent, wit, and generosity. Her legacy will continue to be felt for years to come, as she has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and beyond.
