Occasionally, when I feel down, I watch two Tim Conway clips from the great Carol Burnett show. I’m sure you’ve seen both absolutely everywhere today after the announcement of Conway’s death at the age of 85. I managed to work the “Elephant” clip into a fashion post about the SAG Awards in 2016. The “Dentist” skit is as funny on its 100th viewing as it was the first time around, so I don’t think Conway was exaggerating when he said that co-star Harvey Korman wet his pants from laughter during filming.
But I don’t want you to miss the great anecdote that Bob Newhart shared on Twitter. Thanks to my old friend Dave for the heads up. Now who’s got the video tape of this?
We lost one of the greatest today – Tim Conway may be the greatest ever! I will never forget on an Emmy Awards when Harvey Korman won & Tim did not. Harvey went up to accept his award, Tim went up and stood right next to him, not saying a word. Ginnie & I will miss him greatly!! pic.twitter.com/Pvn3LEYH7K
— Bob Newhart (@BobNewhart) May 14, 2019
Others paying tribute included, of course, Carol Burnett, who released this statement: “I’m heartbroken. He was one in a million, not only as a brilliant comedian but as a loving human being. I cherish the times we had together both on the screen and off. He’ll be in my heart forever.”
Vicki Lawrence, another Burnett show star, posted on Instagram.
Whether you’re re-watching the Elephant story or watching it for the first time, always wait for Vicki’s line at the end. It’s so perfect, and so is the sight of Tim Conway literally rolling on the floor laughing after her she provides the finale to his seemingly endless story.
Separately, while I don’t currently have any special Doris Day clips saved for difficult days, maybe I will soon. The movie star/singer/animal activist died at age 97 on Monday, and I was completely engrossed by her life story as told by the New York Times. Recommended reading!