When the news broke of Tim Conway’s passing at the age of 85, it was a devastating moment for all who were touched by his humor and talent. Conway, a comedy legend, left behind a remarkable legacy that will forever be cherished. One person who remembers him fondly is his co-star and dear friend, Carol Burnett.
Conway, originally from Ohio, gained fame through his role on The Carol Burnett Show. While many may remember him from his time on McHale’s Navy or his memoir, What’s So Funny? My Hilarious Life, his contribution to comedy is unparalleled. He was undeniably one of the greatest comedians of the last century.
Carol Burnett holds a special place in her heart for Conway. In an interview with USA Today, she shared a heartfelt memory of their time together. “He was one in a million, not only as a brilliant comedian but as a loving human being,” Burnett revealed. “I cherish the times we had together both on the screen and off. He’ll be in my heart forever.”
Conway passed away in the Los Angeles area on Tuesday morning, according to his representative Howard Bragman. The loss of such an incredible talent is deeply felt by all who knew him.
Conway’s remarkable talent knew no bounds. He could effortlessly portray a multitude of characters and had an exceptional ability to improvise on the spot. One of his most beloved characters on The Carol Burnett Show was Mr. Tudball, for which he received a Golden Globe. He also won Emmys in 1973, 1977, and 1978. Conway’s comedic genius was widely recognized and celebrated through numerous accolades.
In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, Conway once shared the story of his unique arrangement with Carol Burnett. “They used to do 33 shows a year on Burnett. She said, ‘Why don’t you just be a regular on the show?’ I said, ‘I will tell you what. I will do 32 shows and leave one week open at the end so I can guest on somebody’s show. I always guested on her show, but I did have the right to go somewhere else. My job on every show was to break everybody up.’”
Even after The Carol Burnett Show ended, Conway and Burnett continued to collaborate on various projects, including 1991’s Carol & Company. He later found success on Married With Children, portraying the character Ephraim Wanker.
Conway’s talent remained vibrant even in more recent years. He lent his voice to the character Barnacle Boy on SpongeBob SquarePants, which endeared him to a new generation.
Following Conway’s passing, it was clarified that he showed no signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s at the time. While there were initial doubts raised, it was important to address this misinformation. Conway leaves behind a loving family, including his seven children, one of whom is Tim Conway Jr., a radio show host on KFI Los Angeles.
Director Judd Apatow also paid tribute to Conway, saying, “The man was pure comedy. Riotously funny. I finally got to see him work when he guest-starred on The Larry Sanders Show, and he was everything I had imagined him to be. As kind as he was funny. He will be missed.”
Tim Conway’s talent, kindness, and unique humor have left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. His memory will live on forever, bringing laughter to the hearts of all who remember him.
