Ep 3. The Best Of The Carol Burnett Show: S7 E3 - Gloria Swanson

The Best Of The Carol Burnett Show: Series season 7 episode 3, titled "Gloria Swanson," is a beloved classic episode of the iconic variety show that originally aired in 1974. This particular episode features Hollywood legend Gloria Swanson as a guest star, joining Burnett and her regular cast of comedians for an hour of sketch comedy, musical numbers, and off-the-cuff humor.

As with all episodes of The Carol Burnett Show, the focus is on laughter and entertainment in all its forms. There are musical performances, including a duet between Swanson and Burnett on the tune "The Best Things in Life Are Free," as well as a hilariously pun-filled number about the perils of drinking too much soda. There are also sketch comedy routines that range from silly to absurd to touching, showcasing the wide range of talents of Burnett and her team.

The episode opens with a tongue-in-cheek sendup of classic Hollywood melodramas, with Swanson playing a faded starlet who is looking for a comeback role. From there, the skits come fast and furious, taking on topics as varied as little league baseball, office holiday parties, and a group therapy session for the recently unemployed.

One of the most memorable moments of the episode is a sketch titled "The Family," in which the Burnett troupe presents a parody of classic family sitcoms. Swanson plays the imperious matriarch of the family, who is always one step ahead of everyone else and always knows best. The comedy in this sketch comes from the way each member of the family interacts with each other, with each actor playing their role to the hilt and bringing their own unique spin to the comedy.

Another highlight of the episode is a sketch called "The Oldest Man," in which Burnett plays a spry senior citizen who is constantly outwitting her well-meaning but hapless nurse, played by Swanson. The humor here comes not just from the physical comedy of Burnett's character, but also from the sharp writing and comic timing of the performers.

Throughout the episode, Swanson proves herself to be a game guest star, always game for whatever crazy antics the Burnett troupe throws her way. Her grace and charm are on full display, and her years of experience working in Hollywood shine through in her flawless comic timing and natural ease on camera.

All in all, The Best Of The Carol Burnett Show: Series season 7 episode 3 is a must-watch for fans of classic comedy and variety shows. With its strong performances, clever writing, and timeless humor, it provides an hour of entertainment that is just as fresh and funny today as it was when it first aired nearly 50 years ago.