Harvey Korman could barely contain his laughter as Tim Conway transformed himself into a woman for a hilarious sketch on The Carol Burnett Show. This rare and long-lost clip from the iconic comedy show has been hidden away for nearly 40 years, but it still has the power to make anyone burst into giggles. Though brief, this skit is a perfect example of the unique chemistry and comedic timing that made Conway and Korman legends.
Running from 1967 to 1978, The Carol Burnett Show became one of America’s most successful television series. With its unforgettable characters and clever sketches, the show consistently ranked among the top 30 most-watched programs each season. It also claimed spots on numerous lists celebrating the “Best TV Shows of All Time.” This groundbreaking show redefined comedy on television, and at its heart were Tim Conway and Harvey Korman, two comedic talents whose partnership brought countless laughs to millions of viewers.
Although Tim Conway and Harvey Korman weren’t a formal comedy duo like Abbott and Costello, they shared an on-screen chemistry that was impossible to ignore. They were frequently paired together for skits on The Carol Burnett Show, and their natural ability to make each other laugh quickly made them fan favorites. Conway’s unexpected antics and Korman’s attempts to hold back laughter led to moments of pure, unscripted humor, and audiences couldn’t get enough of it.
In this particular sketch, which is only available on DVD, Conway and Korman go undercover as a couple, with Tim dressed up as a woman to complete the disguise. Tim, in character, warns Harvey not to hold “her” too closely, hinting at his discomfort with getting too personal. Harvey, however, insists that they need to look like a real couple to convincingly pull off the task at hand. The comedic tension between them quickly escalates, making for a truly memorable moment.
Tim eventually agrees with Harvey but emphasizes that they need to keep things “professional.” That’s when things take a hilariously absurd turn. Harvey, taking the mission seriously, doesn’t see why Tim would assume their act was anything but a job. With perfect timing, Tim tosses his wigged “hair” back, sending both comedians into fits of laughter. They do their best to stay in character, but their giggles soon take over, and it’s clear they’re struggling to hold it together. The studio audience, fully caught up in the laughter, only adds to the chaos as everyone is swept up in the moment.
To keep his composure, Harvey tries a few desperate tactics, like combing his bangs and pulling out a compact powder case. He dabs the powder onto his mustache and chin, a ridiculous move that only makes everyone laugh harder. At this point, the entire room is practically in tears, caught up in the pure joy of unscripted comedy. It’s a beautiful reminder of the spontaneous humor that defined The Carol Burnett Show.
One viewer who recently saw this clip again remarked, “I don’t know which is funnier: Tim flicking his hair back or Harvey making a fist to stop himself from laughing.” Comments like this capture just how timeless this comedy remains. It’s the type of humor that words alone can’t fully capture—you simply have to see it to appreciate the genius.
Throughout its 11-season run, The Carol Burnett Show won an astounding 25 Emmy Awards and 8 Golden Globes, achievements that are a testament to the incredible talent of its cast and crew. Not only did the show earn critical acclaim, but it also launched the careers of several comedians and actors who became household names. Decades later, it remains one of the most celebrated and influential programs in television history.
Conway and Korman’s performance in this sketch is a masterclass in comedic timing and commitment. With a simple setup, they created a scene that went from amusing to downright hysterical within seconds. Their ability to turn even the smallest gestures—like flicking a wig or dabbing powder—into comedic highlights speaks to their natural talent and understanding of humor. Their laughter wasn’t just for the audience; it was a genuine reaction that brought the entire studio to life.
In the world of comedy, few shows have reached the legendary status of The Carol Burnett Show, and even fewer comedians have achieved the beloved legacy of Conway and Korman. This clip, while just a brief moment in the show’s long run, is a shining example of the joy they brought to audiences everywhere. Thanks to their shared laughter and unbreakable bond, their legacy continues to inspire, reminding us all that true comedy never fades—it only gets better with time.
This rewrite maintains the humor and original intent, keeping the core story intact while adapting the language and tone for an American audience.
