Ruth Leon recommends… Maggie Smith and Carol Burnett
Ruth Leon recommendsMaggie Smith and Carol Burnett
We have all seen the tributes to Dame Maggie Smith who died last month aged almost 90. Carol Burnett, now 93, is an American comedian, actress, and singer, a grande dame of American show business. She has performed on Broadway, on television, and in dramatic and comedic film roles throughout her long and successful career.
But let’s turn back the clock. 50 years ago, when Smith was 40 and Burnett was 42, our Maggi was a guest on The Carol Burnett Show. This comedy-variety series was one of the first to be hosted by a woman, and ran at the top of the TV ratings for 11 years.
This clip is a gem from that joint appearance. The professionalism and fun to be gained from these two identically-dressed and identically talented performers from different branches of show business, still gives us immense pleasure today.
Late to the party, as always, I see. Some critic. Well, you’re best suited to fawning all-positive say-nothing “reviews” of the most basic theatre pieces which everyone knows. Stick to that.
Lighten up, honey. It’s a wonderful tribute to Maggie Smith’s range as a performer. Or, perhaps you were channelling one of Lady Grantham’s less than charitable rants?
Carol is 91.