The Carol Burnett Show: The Lost Episodes Season 2 Episode 21 Ethel Merman and Tim Conway

The Carol Burnett Show season 2 episode 21 features two beloved icons of comedy and musical theater: Ethel Merman and Tim Conway. Known for her powerful voice and unforgettable performances in Broadway hits like Annie Get Your Gun and Gypsy, Merman was a legend in her own right. Conway, on the other hand, was a master of physical comedy and improvisation, known for his work on TV shows like McHale's Navy and The Carol Burnett Show itself.

In this episode, Merman and Conway join Carol Burnett and the rest of the cast for a variety of sketches and musical numbers that showcase their unique talents. One such sketch features Merman as a wealthy socialite who hires a butler (played by Conway) who is vastly overqualified for the job. As he comically performs tasks like pouring champagne and changing light bulbs with exaggerated finesse, Merman's character becomes more and more frustrated with his antics.

Another sketch sees the foursome in a classic "maid service" parody, with Merman playing a no-nonsense head of the agency and Conway as an inept new employee who can't seem to do anything right. When they're sent to clean Burnett's character's house, chaos ensues as they stumble over each other and break everything in sight.

Of course, no episode of The Carol Burnett Show would be complete without a musical number, and Merman delivers on this front as well. She takes center stage for a rousing rendition of "Everything's Coming Up Roses," her signature song from Gypsy. As always, Merman's powerful voice fills the stage and brings the audience to their feet.

Conway also gets his chance to shine with some musical comedy of his own, including a hilarious performance as a trumpet player who can't seem to hit the right notes. In another sketch, he plays a wacky inventor who demonstrates a series of ridiculous gadgets, including a "soundproof" phone booth that still allows him to hear everything outside and a "time-saving" device that actually takes more time to use than the old-fashioned method.

Throughout the episode, Merman and Conway's chemistry with each other and with the rest of the cast is evident, and their infectious energy and comedic timing keep the audience laughing from start to finish. Whether they're singing show tunes or cracking jokes, these two masters of their craft are at the top of their game and provide a perfect complement to the already-stellar cast of The Carol Burnett Show.

Overall, season 2 episode 21 of The Carol Burnett Show is a must-watch for fans of classic comedy and musical theater. With Ethel Merman and Tim Conway at the helm, it's an hour of non-stop laughter and entertainment that showcases some of the greatest talents of the era.