This year, fans around the world celebrated a huge milestone for comedy legend Carol Burnett, who turned 90 on April 26. To honor her, NBC and Peacock aired a two-hour special called Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter + Love. It was a night filled with laughter and touching memories that captured Carol’s unforgettable career and the joy she brought to millions.
In the days leading up to her big night, Carol was as busy as ever, juggling interviews and sharing stories from her life with everyone who asked. From major networks to magazines, it seemed the whole world wanted a piece of Carol. One interview that stood out was with PEOPLE magazine, where Carol gave readers a glimpse into her life, talking about her career, family, and the lessons she’s learned.
Among the many stories Carol shared, she spoke most lovingly about her daughter Carrie Hamilton. Carrie, one of her three children with her second husband, Joe Hamilton, was an actress and singer who followed in her mother’s footsteps. Carrie’s life, however, had its challenges. She battled addiction but bravely fought her way through. Sadly, she passed away in 2002 at the age of 38 from lung and brain cancer.
If Carrie were here today, she would be 60 this December. Despite the shortness of her life, Carrie left an unforgettable mark, especially on her mother. Carol carries her daughter’s memory with her every day, feeling her presence close by. “There’s hardly a day or even a moment when she isn’t with me,” Carol said with emotion, describing Carrie as “a force” who brought light to everyone around her.
Carol holds onto one powerful piece of advice that Carrie shared with her during her illness. Carol was by her side in the hospital every day, and she recalled a nurse once saying, “Carrie just brightens everyone’s spirits.” Carol, amazed by her daughter’s resilience, asked, “How do you stay so positive?”
Carrie’s response was simple: “Every day, I wake up and decide.” That word, “decide,” stayed with Carol. “That’s the essential word,” she explained. Now, Carol starts every morning by remembering Carrie’s words, choosing to appreciate each new day.
“We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but today… we have the choice to be grateful,” Carol shared. “That’s something we all need to do a little more—be thankful for what we have.”
Just before she passed, Carrie and Carol had been working on a play together, Hollywood Arms, based on Carol’s memoir One More Time. The play portrayed Carol’s early life, her struggles, and her journey in Hollywood. Carol was heartbroken that Carrie never got to see it on stage. Her husband urged her to finish the project as a tribute to Carrie and their friend Hal Prince, the play’s director.
Determined, Carol pushed through her grief and completed Hollywood Arms. On April 9, 2002, less than three months after Carrie’s passing, the play opened at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. It later moved to Broadway, playing for 76 performances and 28 previews, winning the hearts of audiences with its heartfelt story.
Before the premiere, Carol had a quiet moment on the plane with her husband. “I said a little prayer to Carrie,” she recalled. “I told her, ‘I’ll do this, but I don’t want to do it alone. Be with me.’” Carol felt a calm reassurance, knowing that Carrie’s spirit would be there with her.
What do you think of this touching story of love and resilience? Share your thoughts in the comments!
