Tuesday, September 30, 2014

The Carol Burnett Show


In the 1960's, Carol Burnett was a hot commodity and as a result, she was eagerly signed by CBS to a ten year contract. Ms. Burnett, as part of the contract, was required to do two guest starring roles per year on CBS shows. Additionally, she could force CBS to create a variety show for her in the first five years of the contract.

Literally days before the conclusion of the five year option, Carol decided to pull the trigger and asked CBS for her variety show. The network balked and tried to talk her into doing a sitcom. She insisted on the contractually agreed upon variety show and CBS reluctantly agreed. Despite CBS' reluctance, the show went on to run 11 seasons and became a classic television show.