Carol Burnett is a truly legendary entertainer who got her start way back in the ’50s. Her work influenced an entire generation of new talent, as comedians such as Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Steve Carell are among the many stars who have sung her praises.
But what is Carol Burnett doing now? It’s been decades since she peaked with her own variety show, and many former fans haven’t kept up with her career since then. Get the details on what the comedy queen has been up to.
A Look At Carol Burnett’s Health
Carol Burnett is alive and thriving in her late 80s. In 2020, she spoke to the Hollywood Reporter about living through the pandemic from her Santa Barbara home. She told the outlet that she kept busy by watching movies with her husband, getting daily exercise, and supporting local restaurants with takeout orders.
“My heart goes out to the people who have lost their jobs, and all of the first responders, doctors, and nurses who are putting their lives on the line,” Burnett said. “It’s not much of a sacrifice, at least for me right now, just to sit on the sofa.”
Sadly, Burnett even outlived one of her children. In 2001, her youngest daughter Carrie Hamilton was diagnosed with lung cancer at age 38. She died the following year.
“I think of her every day,” Burnett told People in 2018. “She never leaves me … I just feel her.”
What Is Carol Burnett Doing Now?
Burnett is definitely keeping busy. A 2020 tour was canceled due to the pandemic, but she was able to go back on the road with Carol Burnett: An Evening of Laughter and Reflection in 2022.
“I miss [touring life] because for me it keeps the old grey matter ticking,” she told Salt Wire. “I never know what they’re going to ask so I have to be on my toes. It keeps me young.”
Burnett also starred in two recent Netflix productions: A Little Help with Carol Burnett (2018) and All Together Now (2020).
She returned to the small screen in 2022, guest-starring as Marion in Better Call Saul.
In June 2022, Variety announced that Burnett will be joining the cast of the Apple comedy series “Mrs. American Pie” alongside SNL alum Kristen Wiig. The 10-episode series will see Burnett as a member of a Florida high society in the 1970s.
In addition to acting and touring, Burnett sets aside time for charitable endeavors. Helping others was a promise she made to a benefactor she met early in her career. In late May 2021, she participated in Broadway Barks, a popular annual fundraiser for animal shelters and rescue groups.
Despite the continued success of her career, Burnett is dealing with a more personal battle behind the scenes. Her daughter, Erin Hamilton, has struggled with substance abuse for years, which led Burnett and her husband to become temporary guardians of Hamilton’s son Dylan. In November 2021, we reported that Burnett is looking to have this arrangement made permanent for the sake of her grandson.