Tim Conway’s humor had this magical quality—it wasn’t just funny, it was transformative. The kind of humor that made you laugh until your sides ached and your cheeks hurt, all while marveling at how effortless he made it seem. In 1978, at the 30th Primetime Emmy Awards, he and Harvey Korman did more than accept an award; they gave us a moment of pure comedy gold. Their acceptance speech, laced with Conway’s signature off-the-cuff brilliance, turned an ordinary awards night into an unforgettable piece of television history.
Tim began his speech with a telegram that seemed heartfelt but quickly unraveled into sheer hilarity. “Tim, we know this is your day, but we hope you’ll take a few moments to think of us. Our thoughts are with you always. Love, the gang at the Tarzana Pitch-n-Putt.” The delivery was so dry and so perfect that the audience didn’t stand a chance. Harvey Korman, ever the master of restraint, played the perfect foil, barely managing to keep it together as Conway riffed with genius unpredictability.
How Tim Conway’s Emmy speech became a comedy masterclass in 1978.
The Emmy Awards that year were held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium—a setting as grand as the comedy duo who took the stage. Tim Conway and Harvey Korman had already made their mark on ‘The Carol Burnett Show,’ where their chemistry carried sketches to legendary status. But here, under the shimmering lights of Hollywood’s most celebrated night, they elevated their craft. Their speech wasn’t just funny; it was a showcase of why comedy, at its best, is an art form.
The image of Tim, mid-laughter, captures the essence of his charm. It’s not just his face—it’s the twinkle in his eye, the way he carried the room with a subtle smirk that hinted he knew exactly how hard he was killing. It wasn’t rehearsed, it wasn’t forced—it was simply Conway.
Harvey Korman, the yin to Conway’s yang, stood by, the very picture of someone trying not to lose it. His expressions were part of the act—a silent partner in the comedy, proving that great humor often lies in the reactions, not just the punchlines. Together, they proved why they were the kings of their craft.
What made Tim Conway so universally beloved wasn’t just his timing or his wit; it was his heart. His daughter Kelly once revealed how much he cared about creating moments families could watch together, free from embarrassment. This ethos of inclusive, heartfelt comedy shone through that night, making the room erupt in laughter while staying true to his principles.
If you’ve ever needed a reminder of why comedy matters, this speech will do it. Share this gem because it’s not just about laughing—it’s about remembering what makes us connect through joy and humor. Tim and Harvey gave us that in spades.
