Ep 6. with Phyllis Diller, Gwen Verdon, and Bobbie Gentry
- October 16, 1967
The Carol Burnett Show was a variety show that aired from 1967 to 1978. The sixth episode of season one features three talented ladies: Phyllis Diller, Gwen Verdon, and Bobbie Gentry.
Phyllis Diller was a comedian known for her self-deprecating humor and wild hair. Gwen Verdon was a Broadway performer, famous for her performances in shows like Damn Yankees and Sweet Charity. Bobbie Gentry was a singer-songwriter known for her hit song "Ode to Billie Joe."
The episode begins with Carol Burnett's opening monologue, where she discusses the events of the past week and jokes about current events. This leads into a sketch featuring Phyllis Diller as a nosy neighbor who keeps interrupting Carol's attempts to relax at home. The two women play off each other's comedic energy, and the sketch is filled with physical humor and clever one-liners.
Next up is a musical performance from Gwen Verdon. She sings a medley of songs from the musical Damn Yankees, including "Whatever Lola Wants" and "Who's Got the Pain?" Verdon's incredible dancing and powerful voice are on full display, and the audience can't help but be swept up in the energy of her performance.
After a commercial break, Carol brings out her next guest, Bobbie Gentry. The two women chat about Gentry's career and her recent success with "Ode to Billie Joe." Gentry also performs the song on the show, accompanied by a guitar and a haunting harmonica. Her voice is beautiful and emotive, and the audience can feel the pain and longing in the lyrics.
The episode continues with a series of comedy sketches, including one where Burnett and Diller play two women trying to sell a car to a hapless customer, and another where Burnett and Verdon play two best friends planning a trip to Europe. The sketches are silly and fun, and the chemistry between the performers is apparent.
The episode concludes with a musical finale featuring all of the performers singing and dancing together. It's a joyful and upbeat end to the show, and the audience leaves feeling entertained and uplifted.
Overall, season one episode six of The Carol Burnett Show is a delightful showcase of three talented women. From Diller's zany humor to Verdon's electrifying dancing to Gentry's soulful singing, there's something for everyone in this episode. The comedy sketches are clever and funny, and the musical performances are top-notch. Fans of classic comedy and variety shows will definitely enjoy this episode of The Carol Burnett Show.
