Carol Burnett, the legendary actress and comedian, recently shared insights into her remarkable career and personal life during an episode of the “IMO” podcast on January 14, 2024. The 92-year-old star, who initially aspired to be a journalist before finding success on Broadway and in television, reflected on the challenges she faced and the profound impact of her late daughter, Carrie Hamilton.
Burnett’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by resilience and optimism. She recounted an early audition experience where she was competing against another actress for a role. Rather than feeling discouraged by the outcome, she adopted a positive mindset, believing that it simply was not her time yet. “I thought, ‘It’s her turn. It’s not my turn. My turn will come,’” Burnett said, emphasizing her unwavering confidence in her future success.
Unexpected Financial Support and Career Milestones
Throughout her career, Burnett encountered both challenges and fortunate surprises. She vividly recalled her desire to attend UCLA but faced financial barriers. An anonymous letter containing a $50 bill appeared unexpectedly in her mailbox, allowing her to pursue her college education. “I said, ‘I’m going to UCLA,’” Burnett noted, highlighting the mystery surrounding the generous gift.
Later on, as she became involved in the UCLA theater department, Burnett dreamed of moving to New York to pursue Broadway. A wealthy businessman stepped in, offering $1,000 to several students with the condition that they use the funds to further their careers. “He said, ‘You must never reveal my name. And if you are successful, you must help others out,’” she recalled. Burnett honored this promise and returned the money “five years to the day.”
Burnett also reflected on the challenges of being a female comedian during a time when women in Hollywood faced significant obstacles. “If I did it as a woman in that time, I would be considered a bitch,” she explained. Instead of directly criticizing writers, she would frame her requests for help in a way that maintained harmony, showcasing her adaptability and professionalism.
A Lasting Friendship and Personal Loss
During the podcast, Burnett reminisced about her friendship with the iconic comedian Lucille Ball. The two met in New York City and quickly formed a bond. Burnett described Ball as a supportive friend who offered assistance whenever needed. Tragically, Ball passed away on Burnett’s birthday in April 1989, a moment that deeply affected her. “I got flowers that afternoon. ‘Happy birthday, kid,’” Burnett recalled, illustrating the bittersweet nature of their friendship.
Burnett also opened up about her daughter Carrie, who struggled with drug addiction from a young age. Carrie, the daughter of Burnett and her second husband Joe Hamilton, faced significant challenges throughout her teenage years. “My darling Carrie got into drugs as a teenager, and it took a lot. It was three rehabs and family sessions,” Burnett shared. The actress expressed the emotional turmoil of having to balance love and tough decisions, stating, “I said, ‘I have to love her enough to let her hate me.’”
Carrie achieved sobriety at the age of 17, and for a time, things seemed to be improving. However, her health subsequently deteriorated, and she passed away at the age of 38 in January 2002 due to pneumonia, a complication related to lung cancer that had spread to her brain. Burnett’s candid discussion about her daughter’s struggles and her own experiences highlights the complexities of familial love and loss.
As Burnett continues to reflect on her life, her stories serve as a testament to resilience and the importance of support systems in overcoming personal struggles. Her journey from a budding actress to a beloved television icon remains an inspiring narrative for many.
