Carol Burnett

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Episode: Carol Burnett
Date: November 26, 2025
Guest: Carol Burnett

Main Theme & Purpose

In this heartfelt and lively episode, Ted Danson sits down with the legendary Carol Burnett to reflect on her iconic career in comedy, television, and stage, her personal journey from humble beginnings to stardom, and the deep connections that define a meaningful life. The conversation delves into Carol’s transformative experiences, her new role in "Palm Royale," the special bond with her late daughter Carrie (and how it shaped her memoir "Carrie and Me"), and explores themes of mentorship, serendipity, and encounters with the mysterious.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Ripple Effect of Comedy and Legacy

Carol’s Joy in Making People Laugh (01:45):
Carol shares that the greatest satisfaction comes not from fame, but from hearing how her comedy brought families together:

“The things that make me happiest is when somebody says… that’s one of the few times I saw my mother laugh.” – Carol, [01:49]
Ted's Unique Childhood
Ted reveals that his family didn’t have a TV until “Cheers” aired, sharing a sweet anecdote:

“They put this religious tapestry over it when they weren’t watching Cheers.” – Ted, [02:18]

2. Career Beginnings, Accidents, and Lucky Breaks

Carol’s Start – Almost by “Accident” (04:04-08:37):
- Wanted to be a journalist, but UCLA lacked a journalism major. Enrolled in “Theater Arts English” hoping to write plays, but accidentally discovered her love for acting.
- A disastrous first acting monologue (“She gave me a D minus. The only reason you’re not getting an F is because you memorized it.” – Carol, [06:01]) was followed by a breakthrough comedic performance.
- Serendipity played a big role: had she not been forced to take the acting class, “I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you.” – Carol, [07:28]
A Stranger’s Gift Launched Her Career (13:33):
At a party, a stranger offered Carol $1,000 on the spot to move to New York—on the condition she help others if she became successful and never reveal his name.

“You must never reveal my name. And if you are successful, you must promise to help others out.” – Carol, [14:03]

3. Making It in New York – Grit & Ingenuity

The Rehearsal Club & Putting On a Show (17:10-21:16):
- Carol recounts arriving in NYC, staying at the famed Rehearsal Club for women pursuing theater, and facing Catch-22s: needing an agent to get a part, but needing a part to get an agent.
- Solution: She organizes “The Rehearsal Club Revue,” inviting industry professionals via penny postcards—resulting in three women (including herself) landing agents.
“We’re going to put on a show and… invite every agent, producer, director in town.” – Carol, [20:23]

4. Hollywood Attitudes & Positivity

Ted and Carol discuss the generational shift in outlook. Ted shares how a negative acting teacher tried to discourage students, but he learned to defy negativity and trust in possibility.
Carol reflects how classic movie narratives taught her: “Nothing was impossible.” [21:17]

5. Carol Burnett’s Recent Work: “Palm Royale” on Apple TV

The "Coma" Role and Star-Studded Cast (26:29-28:08):
- Carol delighted in being cast alongside Kristen Wiig, Allison Janney, Laura Dern, and more.
“I said, stop. I’m in. I don’t care what you want me to do, I’m in.” – Carol, [27:28]
- On the comedic challenge of playing a character in a coma:
“I’d get up, go to the motor home, get in the car, and go right back to bed. Just lie there all day. It was… a good gig.” – Carol, [28:10]
- Ted praises Carol’s nuanced performance, marveling how she “would get laughs… in the middle of your coma.” [26:30]
- The show’s tone balances over-the-top, gossipy comedy with real depth and forgiveness for its flawed characters:
  
  “That’s the fun of the second season…forgiving them.” – Carol, [33:08]
- Season Two brings even more star power, including Patti LuPone, John Stamos, and Vicki Lawrence. [31:56]

6. Friendship, Wordle, and Marital Joy

Carol and Ted discover they both share a love of playing Wordle, Spelling Bee, and Connections with their spouses – a charming insight into their daily rituals.

“We tag team. Yeah. Yes. It’s much more fun.” – Carol, [34:13]
“There is no way you can cheat with that…it’s just luck.” – Carol, [35:12]
- Ted jokes about Carol’s “woo woo” intuition.

7. Mystical Experiences & Family Connections

Out-of-Body Experiences (37:07-39:44):
- Both Ted and Carol describe genuine “out of body” moments, as does Carol’s daughter Carrie.
“I would go up here and look down. And then I got scared. And as soon as I got scared…I would say, ‘What is this about?’ As soon as I did that, it would come back.” – Carol, [39:13]
Messages from Carrie After Her Passing (40:53-45:28):
- Carol shares a moving story about asking her late daughter for a sign during a pivotal moment in her career:
  - A bouquet of birds of paradise (Carrie’s favorite flower) and a bottle of champagne labeled “Louise” (Carrie's middle name).
- She describes a medium conveying uncanny messages from Carrie:
  
  “She said… the set of Hollywood Arms… from stage right to stage left… Absolutely correct.” – Carol, [45:08]

8. Fame, Gratitude, and Kindness

On Being Recognized and Giving Back (50:22-53:10):
- Carol treasures positive fan interactions, drawing from her own childhood memories of meeting stars:
“She [Linda Darnell] couldn’t have been sweeter… I do remember how sweet she was. And that means so much…” – Carol, [52:10]
- She remarks on how media scrutiny has escalated, expressing compassion for today’s celebrities while recognizing her fortune in having “had it easier” in her earlier days.

9. Bond with Husband Brian and Reflections on Love (48:32-49:31):

Carol shares how she met Brian, her husband of over 30 years, through music:

“He was the contractor for the orchestra… That’s how we met. And just go back. Justice… We got friendly… That was it.” – Carol, [49:07]

10. A Life Philosophy of Connection

Ted reflects on the value of connecting with people and the reasons he loves doing this podcast:

“I want to greet and say, ‘hi, we are all one’ to as many people as I possibly can. That’s why I'm doing these podcasts…” – Ted, [53:48]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On accidental discovery of performing:
“Had there been a school of major in journalism, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you.” – Carol, [07:28]
On Carol’s patron:
“You must never reveal my name. And if you are successful, you must promise to help others out.” – Carol, [14:03]
On performance in a coma:
“I’d get up, go to the motor home, get in the car, and go right back to bed. Just lie there all day. It was… a good gig.” – Carol, [28:10]
On woo woo intuition:
“Yeah, you have some woo woo woo in you, don’t you?" – Ted, [36:35]
On fame and kindness:
“That means so much to… people who are nice… I’m very happy to do it. And especially with little kids, because from Annie and from reruns and stuff, a lot of little kids… they couldn’t be sweeter.” – Carol, [52:10]
On podcasting and connection:
“I want to greet and say, ‘hi, we are all one’ to as many people as I possibly can. That’s why I'm doing these podcasts…” – Ted, [53:48]
On friendship with Woody Harrelson:
“He just has massive amount of friends, real friends. I don’t. Because… I want to go home to Mary as fast as I can because that’s where my joy is.” – Ted, [54:39]

Timestamps for Important Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 01:45 | Carol on the joy of making people laugh and generational appeal of her comedy | | 04:04-08:37| Carol’s accidental discovery of acting and early struggles at UCLA | | 13:33 | The patron who launched Carol’s career, and promises she made | | 17:10-21:16| Arrival in New York, The Rehearsal Club, and organizing her own showcase | | 26:29-28:08| Stories from filming “Palm Royale,” star-studded cast, and the “coma” acting challenge | | 30:12 | Discussing Laura and Diane Dern | | 33:08 | Exploring the themes of forgiveness and depth in “Palm Royale” | | 34:13-36:39| Carol and Ted bond over Wordle and playful couple rituals | | 37:07-39:44| Out-of-body experiences, Carol and daughter Carrie’s mystical connection | | 40:53-45:28| Profound signs and messages from Carrie after her passing | | 50:22-53:10| Carol’s experiences with fame, gratitude, and authentic fan encounters | | 53:48-54:39| Ted’s reflections on friendship and the value of the podcast format |

Closing Sentiment

Ted closes the episode in admiration for Carol Burnett’s life, legacy, humility, and ongoing generosity to those around her, encouraging listeners to read her book "Carrie and Me" and to watch "Palm Royale." The exchange reflects their mutual respect, genuine affection, and the power of laughter and kindness in connecting lives.

Recommended:

“Carrie and Me: A Mother and Daughter’s Story” by Carol Burnett
"Palm Royale" streaming on Apple TV+

End of Summary

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Episode: Carol Burnett
Date: November 26, 2025
Guest: Carol Burnett

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Ripple Effect of Comedy and Legacy

Carol’s Joy in Making People Laugh (01:45):
Carol shares that the greatest satisfaction comes not from fame, but from hearing how her comedy brought families together:

“The things that make me happiest is when somebody says… that’s one of the few times I saw my mother laugh.” – Carol, [01:49]
Ted's Unique Childhood
Ted reveals that his family didn’t have a TV until “Cheers” aired, sharing a sweet anecdote:

“They put this religious tapestry over it when they weren’t watching Cheers.” – Ted, [02:18]

2. Career Beginnings, Accidents, and Lucky Breaks

Carol’s Start – Almost by “Accident” (04:04-08:37):
- Wanted to be a journalist, but UCLA lacked a journalism major. Enrolled in “Theater Arts English” hoping to write plays, but accidentally discovered her love for acting.
- A disastrous first acting monologue (“She gave me a D minus. The only reason you’re not getting an F is because you memorized it.” – Carol, [06:01]) was followed by a breakthrough comedic performance.
- Serendipity played a big role: had she not been forced to take the acting class, “I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you.” – Carol, [07:28]
A Stranger’s Gift Launched Her Career (13:33):
At a party, a stranger offered Carol $1,000 on the spot to move to New York—on the condition she help others if she became successful and never reveal his name.

“You must never reveal my name. And if you are successful, you must promise to help others out.” – Carol, [14:03]

3. Making It in New York – Grit & Ingenuity

The Rehearsal Club & Putting On a Show (17:10-21:16):
- Carol recounts arriving in NYC, staying at the famed Rehearsal Club for women pursuing theater, and facing Catch-22s: needing an agent to get a part, but needing a part to get an agent.
- Solution: She organizes “The Rehearsal Club Revue,” inviting industry professionals via penny postcards—resulting in three women (including herself) landing agents.
“We’re going to put on a show and… invite every agent, producer, director in town.” – Carol, [20:23]

4. Hollywood Attitudes & Positivity

Ted and Carol discuss the generational shift in outlook. Ted shares how a negative acting teacher tried to discourage students, but he learned to defy negativity and trust in possibility.
Carol reflects how classic movie narratives taught her: “Nothing was impossible.” [21:17]

5. Carol Burnett’s Recent Work: “Palm Royale” on Apple TV

The "Coma" Role and Star-Studded Cast (26:29-28:08):
- Carol delighted in being cast alongside Kristen Wiig, Allison Janney, Laura Dern, and more.
“I said, stop. I’m in. I don’t care what you want me to do, I’m in.” – Carol, [27:28]
- On the comedic challenge of playing a character in a coma:
“I’d get up, go to the motor home, get in the car, and go right back to bed. Just lie there all day. It was… a good gig.” – Carol, [28:10]
- Ted praises Carol’s nuanced performance, marveling how she “would get laughs… in the middle of your coma.” [26:30]
- The show’s tone balances over-the-top, gossipy comedy with real depth and forgiveness for its flawed characters:
  
  “That’s the fun of the second season…forgiving them.” – Carol, [33:08]
- Season Two brings even more star power, including Patti LuPone, John Stamos, and Vicki Lawrence. [31:56]

6. Friendship, Wordle, and Marital Joy

Carol and Ted discover they both share a love of playing Wordle, Spelling Bee, and Connections with their spouses – a charming insight into their daily rituals.

“We tag team. Yeah. Yes. It’s much more fun.” – Carol, [34:13]
“There is no way you can cheat with that…it’s just luck.” – Carol, [35:12]
- Ted jokes about Carol’s “woo woo” intuition.

7. Mystical Experiences & Family Connections

Out-of-Body Experiences (37:07-39:44):
- Both Ted and Carol describe genuine “out of body” moments, as does Carol’s daughter Carrie.
“I would go up here and look down. And then I got scared. And as soon as I got scared…I would say, ‘What is this about?’ As soon as I did that, it would come back.” – Carol, [39:13]
Messages from Carrie After Her Passing (40:53-45:28):
- Carol shares a moving story about asking her late daughter for a sign during a pivotal moment in her career:
  - A bouquet of birds of paradise (Carrie’s favorite flower) and a bottle of champagne labeled “Louise” (Carrie's middle name).
- She describes a medium conveying uncanny messages from Carrie:
  
  “She said… the set of Hollywood Arms… from stage right to stage left… Absolutely correct.” – Carol, [45:08]

8. Fame, Gratitude, and Kindness

On Being Recognized and Giving Back (50:22-53:10):
- Carol treasures positive fan interactions, drawing from her own childhood memories of meeting stars:
“She [Linda Darnell] couldn’t have been sweeter… I do remember how sweet she was. And that means so much…” – Carol, [52:10]
- She remarks on how media scrutiny has escalated, expressing compassion for today’s celebrities while recognizing her fortune in having “had it easier” in her earlier days.

9. Bond with Husband Brian and Reflections on Love (48:32-49:31):

Carol shares how she met Brian, her husband of over 30 years, through music:

“He was the contractor for the orchestra… That’s how we met. And just go back. Justice… We got friendly… That was it.” – Carol, [49:07]

10. A Life Philosophy of Connection

Ted reflects on the value of connecting with people and the reasons he loves doing this podcast:

“I want to greet and say, ‘hi, we are all one’ to as many people as I possibly can. That’s why I'm doing these podcasts…” – Ted, [53:48]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On accidental discovery of performing:
“Had there been a school of major in journalism, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you.” – Carol, [07:28]
On Carol’s patron:
“You must never reveal my name. And if you are successful, you must promise to help others out.” – Carol, [14:03]
On performance in a coma:
“I’d get up, go to the motor home, get in the car, and go right back to bed. Just lie there all day. It was… a good gig.” – Carol, [28:10]
On woo woo intuition:
“Yeah, you have some woo woo woo in you, don’t you?" – Ted, [36:35]
On fame and kindness:
“That means so much to… people who are nice… I’m very happy to do it. And especially with little kids, because from Annie and from reruns and stuff, a lot of little kids… they couldn’t be sweeter.” – Carol, [52:10]
On podcasting and connection:
“I want to greet and say, ‘hi, we are all one’ to as many people as I possibly can. That’s why I'm doing these podcasts…” – Ted, [53:48]
On friendship with Woody Harrelson:
“He just has massive amount of friends, real friends. I don’t. Because… I want to go home to Mary as fast as I can because that’s where my joy is.” – Ted, [54:39]

Timestamps for Important Segments

Closing Sentiment

Recommended:

“Carrie and Me: A Mother and Daughter’s Story” by Carol Burnett
"Palm Royale" streaming on Apple TV+

End of Summary

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Summary

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Ripple Effect of Comedy and Legacy

2. Career Beginnings, Accidents, and Lucky Breaks

3. Making It in New York – Grit & Ingenuity

4. Hollywood Attitudes & Positivity

5. Carol Burnett’s Recent Work: “Palm Royale” on Apple TV

6. Friendship, Wordle, and Marital Joy

7. Mystical Experiences & Family Connections

8. Fame, Gratitude, and Kindness

9. Bond with Husband Brian and Reflections on Love (48:32-49:31):

10. A Life Philosophy of Connection

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Closing Sentiment

Summary

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Ripple Effect of Comedy and Legacy

2. Career Beginnings, Accidents, and Lucky Breaks

3. Making It in New York – Grit & Ingenuity

4. Hollywood Attitudes & Positivity

5. Carol Burnett’s Recent Work: “Palm Royale” on Apple TV

6. Friendship, Wordle, and Marital Joy

7. Mystical Experiences & Family Connections

8. Fame, Gratitude, and Kindness

9. Bond with Husband Brian and Reflections on Love (48:32-49:31):

10. A Life Philosophy of Connection

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Closing Sentiment