Carol Burnett’s Bold Leadership: When She Fired Harvey Korman and Set the Tone for a Legendary Show

The Carol Burnett Show was a cultural phenomenon, running for 11 years and winning 25 Emmy Awards.

It wasn’t just a variety show but a live, spontaneous comedy experience where breaking character and laughter were part of the magic.

Carol Burnett, the star and executive producer, cultivated a family-like environment where creativity flourished and performers could take risks.

However, during rehearsals in the seventh season, something changed.

Harvey Korman, normally a versatile and beloved comedic actor, was in a foul mood.

He scowled, snapped at people, and shockingly, was rude to guest stars Patti Page and Tim Conway—two of the nicest people in showbiz.

Carol, known for kindness and professionalism, recognized that this behavior crossed a line.

After rehearsal, Carol confronted Harvey in his dressing room.

Instead of apologizing or explaining, Harvey told her to mind her own business and threatened to quit.

When he physically pushed her backward and slammed the door, Carol was stunned—but she didn’t hesitate.

She immediately called his agent and fired him from the show.

Later that night, Carol returned to deliver the news in person.

She told Harvey that his rudeness was unacceptable and that she couldn’t work under those conditions.

But she also offered him a path to redemption: come back cheerful, never be nasty to guests or crew, and even “skip around and whistle in the halls.”

Harvey agreed, and the following Monday, he arrived at the studio with a big smile, skipping and whistling exactly as promised.

This transformation amazed everyone.

Harvey even proudly shared the story at the local bar, praising Carol for her strength and leadership.

Carol commemorated the moment with a plaque on his dressing room door, dubbing him “Mr.Happy-go-lucky.”

From then on, the negative incidents stopped, and the working relationship between Carol and Harvey grew stronger.

Harvey Korman later admitted that he had never seen Carol angry before and that she “scared the crap out of me.”

This episode revealed a side of Carol Burnett many didn’t know—a leader who balanced kindness with firm boundaries and demanded respect for everyone involved.

Carol’s decision underscored several key lessons: talent is never an excuse for bad behavior; professionalism is essential; and leadership means making tough choices to protect the health of a creative environment.

Her approach created a space where laughter and respect coexisted, allowing The Carol Burnett Show to continue its success for four more years.

When Harvey eventually left to star in his own series, it was on good terms, proving that the foundation Carol built was strong.

Their friendship endured, and when Harvey passed away in 2008, Carol was heartbroken, remembering the respect and mutual growth they shared.

Carol Burnett’s story is a masterclass in leadership, creativity, and kindness.

It reminds us that standing up for what’s right—even when it’s uncomfortable—can lead to stronger teams, better work, and lasting legacies.