THR's Original Take on Carol Burnett's Variety Series Premiere

This retrospective piece reprints The Hollywood Reporter's 1967 review of the premiere of 'The Carol Burnett Show' on CBS. The review praises Burnett's growth as a comedienne and her singing, though it notes some sketches fell flat. The series went on to run 278 episodes and win 25 Emmy Awards.
This retrospective could influence how contemporary audiences and industry professionals perceive the longevity of variety television. The show's eventual success may suggest that initial critical mixed reviews do not preclude a series from becoming a cultural touchstone. It could also highlight the enduring appeal of a female-led sketch comedy, potentially affecting how networks and streaming platforms evaluate similar formats today, and how viewers appreciate the evolution of comedic talent over time.