In the comedy world, few shows have left a mark as indelible as "The Carol Burnett Show." The Carol Burnett Archives recently gifted us with a video gem from the 'As the Stomach Turns' episode, featuring a star-studded cast including Carol Burnett, Harvey Korman, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner. This hilarious skit starts in the Canoga Falls home, where Marion (played by Carol Burnett) contemplates her 90-year-old grandfather's antics while sipping coffee.
Tim Conway portrays the grandfather as a classic character with his slow, deliberate movements and a knack for stirring up trouble. As Marion calls him for tea, Tim makes his signature slow entrance, setting the stage for the ensuing comedic chaos. The conversation turns to his upcoming 91st birthday and moving to Sun City. But Grandpa has other plans – he intends to run away rather than go to Sun City, a retirement community.
The plot thickens as the doorbell rings, introducing Cindy, the teenage temptress played by Vicki Lawrence. She quickly captivates Grandpa, who follows her to his bedroom, warning Marion not to intervene in his newfound love affair. Meanwhile, Marion seeks comfort and confides in her brother Ralph (Lyle Waggoner), who arrives with his fourth wife, proclaiming his undying love – that is, until he lays eyes on Cindy.
Ralph is immediately smitten with Cindy, but she rejects him, leading to a comedic display of heartbreak and over-the-top crying. This performance is so absurd that it breaks her character, causing Carol Burnett to struggle to contain her laughter. As the situation stabilizes, Father Colucci arrives, searching for a lost lamb, adding another layer of hilarity to the unfolding drama.
The episode takes a turn when Marion discovers Grandpa is unwell and urgently calls Dr. Hofer (Harvey Korman) for a house call. In a comedic twist, she also asks him to pick up her dress from the cleaners. When Dr. Hofer arrives, the scene becomes chaotic as Grandpa dramatically tumbles down the stairs, prompting uncontrollable laughter from Harvey Korman and Carol Burnett.
As Grandpa faces breathing issues, Cindy reappears, now just in a towel, to bring the old man back to life. However, Dr. Hofer now finds himself enamored with Cindy, leading to a tangled web of affections and comic misunderstandings. The episode now has a voiceover summarizing what would happen in the next episode of 'As the Stomach Turns.'
This episode is a testament to the enduring charm and wit of "The Carol Burnett Show." It's clever writing, impeccable timing, and the chemistry among the cast members make it a classic. As we revisit this hilarious episode, we're reminded of the show's unique ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences.
