Benjamin Spider
Ah, the ’70s – a simpler time. My parents, Sammy (our darling poodle), and I used to curl up on our worn-out couch, the scent of homemade cookies wafting through the room, and tune into “The Carol Burnett Show.” There’s one particular sketch that never fails to take me back to that snug living room: “The New Angel.”
The premise was uncomplicated – heaven was facing a housing shortage! Imagine Angel Harrington, played by Tim Conway, expecting to have an entire cloud to himself, only to be informed by an archangel that he’ll have a roommate. The antics that ensued between him and his new roommate, portrayed by Carol Burnett, were hilariously divine. From trying to understand the ropes (or, in this case, the clouds) of angelic life to adjusting to their newfound heavenly status, the two bumbled and stumbled, leaving us in stitches.
In a flowing white gown, Carol is attempting to fly without her angelic wings. Tim’s endearing befuddlement at the mere idea of flying has left indelible imprints on my memory. As Angel Harrington grapples with adjusting to his new surroundings, Carol’s character, who’s as clueless as he is about the ins and outs of heavenly life, complicates matters with her innocent yet comically disastrous suggestions. Each time he tries to tune his harp or polish halos, she interrupts him, often leading to uproarious consequences. The pinnacle of comedy arrives when she tries to tune her own harp, resulting in a cacophony, much to Harrington’s dismay.
For those of us who grew up in the golden age of television comedy, “The New Angel” represents an era when humor was pure, unadulterated, and genuinely funny. The chemistry between Tim Conway and Carol Burnett was electric, their comedic timing unparalleled. The duo’s antics, with witty one-liners and slapstick routines, made this sketch a timeless comedy piece.
The brilliance of “The Carol Burnett Show” lay in its ability to turn simple premises into comedic gold. The show has left us with many heartwarming memories, but “The New Angel” remains a standout. Every time I come across this sketch, I’m transported back to my childhood, with Sammy snuggled by my side and the world outside forgotten.
For those who haven’t had the pleasure of watching this gem, treat yourself. Relive a time when comedy was straightforward, delightful, and genuinely side-splitting. And if you find yourself reminiscing about the good ol’ days after watching, do me a favor and share this nostalgic trip with your friends.
Share with your friends because sharing is caring.
