The Carol Burnett Show brought us countless hilarious moments, but few as side-splitting as Tim Conway and Harvey Korman’s military mishap sketch. Set in what looks like a Civil War-era camp, this bit had me in stitches from start to finish.
Conway shuffles onto the scene as a bumbling officer, sporting an accent thicker than molasses. Poor Korman, playing a sergeant, can barely keep a straight face as Conway fumbles through trying to discharge him. It’s classic Conway – you can almost see the mischievous glint in his eye as he goes off-script.
The physical comedy ramps up when Conway accidentally tears Korman’s uniform. Watching these two masters play off each other is pure joy. Their timing is impeccable, building the laughs with each ridiculous misstep.
Conway’s Boxers Steal the Show.
Just when you think it can’t get any funnier, Conway ends up in his striped underwear. It’s the perfect visual punchline to cap off the sketch.
The Carol Burnett Show had a knack for putting familiar faces in outrageous historical settings. This sketch is a prime example, playing up the contrast between proper military conduct and complete comedic chaos. Conway’s character feels like a long-lost ancestor to his iconic Mr. Tudball.
Korman deserves major props for mostly holding it together. You can see him fighting back laughter, which only adds to the fun. It’s that genuine joy that made their partnership so magical to watch.
These two could wring laughs out of the simplest premises. Conway’s exaggerated accent alone is enough to set Korman off. But just you wait…
Here’s more classic Tim Conway comedy:
Share these classic comedy gems with your friends because laughter is the best medicine, especially when it comes from the comedic geniuses of The Carol Burnett Show.
