The 1970s were a time when The Carol Burnett Show dominated our evenings, with moments that would stay with us forever. One such skit that became a personal favorite was βThe Old Folks,β featuring Carol and Harvey.
The scene opened with soft music, setting a nostalgic tone for the evening. Carol and Harveyβs playful banter had a warmth that brought laughter with every line. Carolβs reflection, βItβs a beautiful night, isnβt it?β was humorously countered by Harveyβs sharp reply, βHow would you know?β Their chemistry was pure magic, showcasing humor that felt both spontaneous and genuine. The ad-libbed lines and unplanned moments that caused them to break character became part of the charm. What made their comedy special was its wholesome nature, delivering laughs without the need for crude language.
As I watched, my poodle Sammy would sometimes bark at their exaggerated movements, showing he was just as entertained by their antics as the rest of us. Carol, Harvey, Tim, and Vicki were true icons of their time, capable of bringing tears of laughter with their performances. Such moments are rare today, which makes me appreciate even more the tapes my dad recorded for us. In March 2020, like many others, I found comfort in revisiting those episodes while staying safe at home.
The skit cleverly incorporated references to the eraβs pop culture, from Bobby Kennedyβs presidential bid to playful digs at Richard Nixon. The closing moments, with confusion over catching the 11 oβclock news at 10, were a perfect example of their ability to leave audiences with a smile. As the scene ended and Lawrence Welkβs music filled the air, I held onto a cushion, savoring that moment of shared laughter with my family.
In todayβs world, we could certainly use more of that genuine humor. So, if youβre in need of a good laugh or a trip down memory lane, I wholeheartedly recommend βThe Old Folksβ sketch. And if it brings a smile, share it with others and pass along the joy.
