April 26 marks Carol Burnett turning a remarkable 90 years old. Not only is this an admirable milestone, but Burnett boasts a revolutionary career that spans television, theater, film, and music. She’s a formative force in comedy, and so in celebration of Burnett’s birthday, NBC will be airing a special retrospective program, Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love.
Born in ’33, Burnett began working in her field – or one of her many fields – in ’55. She’s still active in the entertainment world to this day. NBC’s 90 Years of Laughter + Love will be a celebration of that ongoing career, joined by special guests to explore just what makes Burnett one of the most beloved people in television.
Celebrities unite to celebrate Carol Burnett and 90 years of laughter and love
Across nearly seven decades of entertainment history in the making, Burnett has worked with some of the brightest stars out there, all while becoming one in her own right. That means there are a lot of celebrities who crossed paths with her and have insightful memories and commentary to share. Viewers of Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love can expect to see Julia Andrews, Katy Perry, Cher, and more.
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The program was taped at Avalon Hollywood & Bardot back on March 3. Other stars who gathered for the celebration include Lisa Kudrow, Amy Poehler, Susan Lucci, and more. Perry was part of the congregation that provided musical performances, joined by Billy Porter, Jane Lynch, and Kristin Chenoweth. Vicki Lawrence, Lily Tomlin, Sofia Vergara, Steve Carell, and Bill Hader are also among the guests who attended.
Honoring entertainment history and love
It just so happens that celebrating Burnett means celebrating not just 90 years of laughter and love, but also television history reshaped and kindness extended to everyone. In short, Burnett wasn’t just groundbreaking; she’s a person loved by all who know her. Her comedic variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, was one of the very first of its kind hosted by a woman. It’s a standard she set with revered poise.
“It’s hard to imagine anyone in television more beloved than Carol Burnett,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events and Specials for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “To throw this wonderful birthday celebration is clearly our honor, and we can’t wait to share the love that we all have for her with all her adoring fans.”
Executive producer Mark Bracco promised Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love will “be the best party ever,” which is exactly what Burnett deserves. The two-hour special airs on Wednesday, April 26 at 8 pm on NBC, and will be available for streaming on Peacock the next day.
