The Carol Burnett Show Season 6 Episode 12 with Carl Reiner, Melba Moore
- November 29, 1972
The Carol Burnett Show was a variety show that aired on CBS from 1967 to 1978. It was hosted by Carol Burnett, who was known for her comedic talent and ability to perform both skits and musical numbers. Each episode featured a variety of sketches, taped segments, and musical performances. Season 6 episode 12, entitled "Carl Reiner, Melba Moore," was no exception.
The show opens with Carol Burnett introducing the night's guests, Carl Reiner and Melba Moore. Reiner, a seasoned comedic actor and writer, is best known for creating and starring in The Dick Van Dyke Show. Moore, on the other hand, is a Tony Award-winning singer and actress whose career spans several decades.
The first skit features Carol Burnett, Vicki Lawrence, and Harvey Korman rehearsing a play. However, Korman can't seem to remember his lines, and hilarity ensues as Burnett and Lawrence try to prompt him without letting the audience catch on.
Next, Carl Reiner joins the cast for a skit in which he plays the butler to Burnett's wealthy woman. The premise is a classic example of a comedic reversal, as the wealthy woman wants to be normal and live like a regular person for a day. Reiner's character is almost too accommodating, which leads to some humorous misunderstandings.
Following the skit, Melba Moore takes the stage to sing "Stone Soul Picnic." The song is upbeat and features Moore's powerful vocals, which receive a well-deserved round of applause.
Another skit follows, in which Burnett and Korman play an expectant couple. Reiner plays the doctor who delivers the baby, but things quickly go awry. Both the physical comedy and the witty wordplay keep the audience laughing throughout.
The next musical number is a medley featuring songs from the popular musical, Hair. Moore takes center stage again, this time in a colorful and vibrant ensemble, as she belts out "Aquarius" and "Let the Sunshine In." The number is complete with psychedelic lighting and backup dancers.
The final skit of the night features Burnett as a housewife who's fed up with her lazy husband, played by Korman. She decides to turn the tables by pretending to be invisible and freaking him out. However, her plan doesn't go exactly as planned, leading to even more hijinks.
The show closes with Burnett thanking the guests and the audience for tuning in. The seamless blend of comedy and music made for a fast-paced, entertaining hour of television. Whether viewers were fans of slapstick comedy or show tunes, there was something for everyone on The Carol Burnett Show.