Carol Burnett is one of the most iconic and beloved figures in American entertainment. As a pioneer in television comedy, an accomplished actress, and a beacon of creativity, she has influenced generations of performers and captured the hearts of millions. Her enduring career, timeless humor, and generosity of spirit have made her a national treasure.
With such a long and impactful life in the public eye, many people ask the question: Is Carol Burnett still alive? The answer is yes. As of May 2025, Carol Burnett is alive at 92 years old and remains active in select entertainment projects, interviews, and appearances. Her legacy continues to evolve as she celebrates more than seven decades in the spotlight.
Early Life and Entry Into Entertainment
Carol Burnett was born on April 26, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas. Raised by her grandmother during a turbulent childhood marked by her parents’ struggles with alcoholism, Burnett developed a love for performance and storytelling early in life. She later moved to Los Angeles and graduated from UCLA, where she studied theater and honed her skills in drama and comedy.
After college, Burnett began appearing in nightclubs and on television variety shows, where her talent for combining slapstick comedy with heartfelt acting quickly caught attention. A pivotal moment came when she starred in Once Upon a Mattress on Broadway in 1959, earning her first major recognition and launching her into national fame.
The Carol Burnett Show: A Comedy Milestone
Carol Burnett’s greatest achievement may be her groundbreaking variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, which aired on CBS from 1967 to 1978. The program was one of the first of its kind hosted by a woman, blending sketch comedy, musical performances, and character-driven humor into a weekly primetime slot. At a time when female comedians rarely led major productions, Burnett’s presence was revolutionary.
The show featured an all-star ensemble cast, including Harvey Korman, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner. Together, they created memorable sketches such as “The Family” and “Mrs. Wiggins,” which showcased Burnett’s physical comedy and versatility. Her signature Q&A segment with the audience and the famous ear tug at the end of each episode made her a household favorite.
The show earned 25 Emmy Awards and helped redefine what television comedy could look like. Burnett’s influence is still felt in modern sketch programs and sitcoms, especially those led by women.
Career Beyond the Variety Show
Following the end of The Carol Burnett Show, Burnett continued acting in both comedic and dramatic roles. She appeared in movies such as Annie (1982), where she played the villainous Miss Hannigan, and television shows like Mad About You, Desperate Housewives, and Law & Order: SVU. Her work often blended comedy with heartfelt sincerity, a hallmark of her unique appeal.
Burnett also became a bestselling author, penning memoirs including One More Time, This Time Together, and Carrie and Me, a tribute to her late daughter, Carrie Hamilton, who died of cancer in 2002. Her books offered fans a deeper understanding of her personal life, career journey, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Continued Relevance in the 2020s
Even in her 90s, Carol Burnett has maintained her cultural relevance. In 2022, she received the Carol Burnett Award for Lifetime Achievement in Television, an honor named after her and presented at the Golden Globe Awards. This was in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the art of television over multiple decades.
In 2024, Burnett starred in Palm Royale, a comedy-drama series on Apple TV+, playing the character Norma Dellacorte. Critics praised her for her wit and presence, noting that even in her later years, she remains a commanding and entertaining screen presence.
In 2025, she made a guest appearance in the award-winning series Hacks, further cementing her status as a timeless performer capable of connecting with audiences across generations.
Health and Public Life at 92
As of 2025, Carol Burnett remains in good health for her age and continues to participate in public interviews and industry events. She celebrated her 92nd birthday in April 2025, and the occasion was marked by tributes from comedians, actors, and fans who credit her with inspiring their own careers.
Burnett has always emphasized mental clarity, humor, and curiosity as keys to her longevity. While she no longer performs regularly on stage, she remains engaged with fans and the entertainment world through interviews, guest spots, and her continuing influence on comedy.
She has also spoken candidly in recent years about aging, loss, and the importance of staying connected to one’s passion. Her reflections offer both wisdom and reassurance to admirers of all ages.
Lasting Legacy in Comedy and Television
Carol Burnett’s impact on American culture is monumental. She paved the way for female comedians like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Ellen DeGeneres, and many others. Her style of comedy—equal parts silly and smart—has become a blueprint for sketch writing and performance.
In addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe wins, Burnett has received:
- The Presidential Medal of Freedom
- The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor
- The Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award
- A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Numerous honorary degrees and lifetime achievement honors
Her variety show reruns continue to be streamed and televised, introducing her classic comedy to new generations. Comedy schools, acting workshops, and institutions still reference her timing, expressions, and improvisational brilliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Carol Burnett still alive in 2025?
Yes. As of May 2025, Carol Burnett is alive and active in select entertainment roles.
How old is Carol Burnett now?
She turned 92 years old on April 26, 2025.
What is Carol Burnett doing currently?
She recently starred in Palm Royale (2024) and made a guest appearance in Hacks (2025). She continues to do interviews and legacy-related projects.
Has Carol Burnett faced any major health issues?
There have been no confirmed reports of major illness. She remains mentally sharp and physically well for her age.
What is Carol Burnett’s legacy in television?
She is regarded as a pioneer in television comedy, especially for women in entertainment. Her variety show is considered one of the greatest of all time.
Did Carol Burnett have children?
Yes. She had three daughters, including Carrie Hamilton, who passed away in 2002 due to cancer.
What awards has Carol Burnett received?
She has won multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Awards and has been honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Mark Twain Prize, and many others.
Conclusion
Carol Burnett remains a beloved icon in American entertainment. At 92, she continues to exemplify humor, grace, and resilience. Her contributions to comedy, television, and culture are not only historic—they are ongoing. She has lived a life filled with purpose, talent, and generosity, and her journey continues to inspire millions.
As of 2025, Carol Burnett is still alive, thriving, and remembered not just for what she has done, but for how she has made people feel. In laughter and in legacy, her impact is profound—and permanent.