Vicki Lawrence

Vicki Lawrence, an Emmy Award-winning actress, comedian, and singer, is recognized for her memorable characters on “The Carol Burnett Show” and her subsequent career as a recording artist and talk show host. After gaining early experience performing with the Young Americans musical group from 1965 to 1967, including appearances at the Oscars and on The Andy Williams Show, Vicki Lawrence was cast on the iconic The Carol Burnett Show in 1967. She then embarked on an 11-year tenure as a key cast member, developing her comedic skills under the mentorship of Carol Burnett and Harvey Korman. During this acclaimed run, Lawrence originated the beloved character of Thelma Harper, known as Mama, first appearing in ‘The Family’ sketch in the show’s seventh season.

Lawrence further diversified her career, making history as the first successful female game show host for the daytime NBC version of Win, Lose or Draw, which she hosted from 1987 to 1990. She went on to host her own nationally syndicated talk show, Vicki!, from 1992 to 1994, for which she garnered multiple Daytime Emmy nominations. Her extensive television work includes numerous guest appearances on popular programs such as Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, and a recurring role on Disney Channel’s Hannah Montana from 2006 to 2011. Most recently, she starred in the FOX sitcom The Cool Kids from 2018 to 2019.

In 1995, Lawrence authored her autobiography, Vicki! The True Life Adventures of Miss Fireball, offering an intimate look into her multifaceted career. Today, she continues to engage audiences as a sought-after motivational speaker for women’s groups and charitable organizations, leveraging her platform to advocate for women’s health and share her unique experiences in entertainment.