Carol Burnett is playfully critiquing contemporary comedy.
The iconic comedian, who rose to fame alongside beloved shows like “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “All in the Family” during television’s Golden Era, has shared her thoughts on how comedy has evolved over the years.
“They’re funny and character-driven; they’re not just crude or vulgar,” Burnett stated on “Variety’s Awards Circuit” podcast.
She expressed concern about some modern comedic content, noting, “I’m not a prude, but I sometimes think that much of what’s out there today… it’s been relatively easy to elicit a laugh by being a little risqué. I don’t mind if it fits the character, but if it’s just to drop a bad word, I find it tedious and unfunny.”
Burnett further elaborated on her comedic standards, highlighting classic shows as prime examples. “Funny is ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show.’ Funny is Mary, Bob Newhart, ‘All in the Family’ – and those still hold up today.”
Although Burnett is uncertain if current comedy measures up to those timeless classics, the 91-year-old actress has no intentions of stepping back from her Hollywood career anytime soon.
Recently, she earned her 23rd Primetime Emmy nomination for her role in “Palm Royale,” a series that has been confirmed for a second season.
Burnett stated to Fox News Digital back in June that she will remain in the industry as long as she finds it enjoyable. “Well, as long as it’s going to be fun. I’m in it for fun,” she said.
She mentioned that her decision to participate in “Palm Royale” was influenced by its impressive ensemble cast, which includes Kristen Wiig, Allison Janney, Ricky Martin, Laura Dern, Josh Lucas, and Kaia Gerber. “All they had to do was tell me who was in it, and I said, ‘I’m there.’ I don’t care what you want me to do,” she explained.
Upon reading the script, she was even more excited, calling it “the cherry on top of the sundae” and expressed her enthusiasm for returning for the second season.
As Burnett continues to thrive in Hollywood, she shared that she still has a few actors she’d love to work with. “Oh, there’s quite a few,” she began. “I’d say Meryl Streep because she’s both funny and has an incredible singing voice. George Clooney – for obvious reasons. Bradley Cooper – for obvious reasons.”
Reflecting on her extensive career, Burnett noted her good fortune in collaborating with over 300 guests during her eleven years of hosting her own comedy variety show, “The Carol Burnett Show,” which garnered 25 Emmys, as well as Golden Globes and a Grammy for her other work.
Additionally, she has appeared in notable films like “Annie” and made numerous television appearances, including her recent roles in “Better Call Saul” and “Palm Royale,” showcasing her enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Burnett’s representative for further comments.