15 Unforgettable Carol Burnett Performances That Will Make You Laugh, Cry, and Reflect

1. The Carol Burnett Show 1967，IMDB Rating: 8.7, IMDB Votes: 7418, ID: 0061240
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Carol Burnett’s iconic role on ‘The Carol Burnett Show’ epitomizes her comedic brilliance, as she effortlessly brought joy and laughter to audiences with her unforgettable skits and impersonations. This variety show, a true gem from television’s golden age, showcased not just her talent but also the incredible chemistry she shared with her ensemble cast, making every episode a delightful experience filled with memorable moments.
2. The Four Seasons (1981) 2021，IMDB Rating: 0.0, IMDB Votes: 0, ID: 15409972
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In ‘The Four Seasons’, Burnett shines as Kate Burroughs, a sensible character navigating the complexities of mid-life alongside Alan Alda. This serio-comic film explores the intricacies of aging and personal crises, as three middle-aged couples grapple with their changing dynamics when one husband leaves his wife for a younger woman, offering a poignant reflection on love and loss.
3. Once Upon a Mattress 1964，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 139, ID: 0424325
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Carol’s portrayal of Princess Winifred in ‘Once Upon a Mattress’ is a delightful revelation that showcases her range. When Winifred dives into the moat to claim her chance at royalty, viewers are treated to a performance that captures her comedic essence, rendered even more vibrant in this adaptation that stays true to the Broadway roots, with an ensemble cast that complements her perfectly.
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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In ‘Friendly Fire’, Carol Burnett delivers a powerful performance as Peg Mullen, a mother determined to challenge the US military’s narrative regarding her son’s death in Vietnam. Her portrayal captures the raw emotion of grief and activism, making ‘Friendly Fire’ a deeply moving exploration of the personal toll of war and a mother’s relentless quest for truth.
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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Burnett’s vocal talents shine in ‘Horton Hears a Who!’, where she brings life to Kangaroo, enriching the character beyond the typical villain archetype. This CGI adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved classic not only captivates with its visuals but also benefits from Burnett’s voice acting, adding layers of depth and nuance to the story.
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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While Carol Burnett doesn’t appear directly in ‘Desperate Housewives: The Game’, her influence is felt in this interactive experience that immerses fans in the drama of the series. This unique blend of simulation and adventure draws players into a storyline filled with intrigue and excitement, echoing the signature elements that made the show so beloved.
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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In ‘Hot in Cleveland’, Burnett’s role as Penny, the charming and quirky mother of Victoria, delivers both humor and heart. As a local TV legend and puppeteer, her character brings a refreshing dynamic to the series, and Burnett’s impeccable comedic timing and expressive performance ensure she stands out as a fan favorite.