Laugh In was a groundbreaking comedy show that aired on NBC from 1968 to 1973. The show was known for its fast-paced sketch comedy, political satire, and witty one-liners. One of the most memorable aspects of the show was the cast of characters played by the talented Lily Tomlin. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of Tomlin's most iconic Laugh In characters and why they continue to be beloved by fans today.
The Edith Ann Character
One of Lily Tomlin's most famous Laugh In characters was Edith Ann, a precocious five-year-old girl who offered up hilarious commentary on the world around her. Edith Ann would sit in a giant rocking chair and share stories about her life, often with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. What made Edith Ann so endearing was the way she mixed childlike innocence with a sharp wit and a keen observation of human behavior. Her catchphrase, "And that's the truth," became an instant classic.
Tomlin's portrayal of Edith Ann was so convincing that many people believed she was actually a child. In reality, Tomlin was in her 30s when she played the character, but her ability to embody the spirit of a child was truly remarkable. Even today, Edith Ann remains a beloved character and a testament to Tomlin's comedic genius.
The Ernestine Character
Another iconic Laugh In character played by Lily Tomlin was Ernestine, a sassy telephone operator who delighted in tormenting her customers. Ernestine's trademark look was a beehive hairdo, oversized glasses, and a cigarette holder, which she would use to punctuate her biting one-liners. She was often seen chatting on the phone with celebrities like Rock Hudson and Henry Kissinger, and her ability to mimic their voices was uncanny.
Ernestine was a commentary on the state of customer service in the 1960s and 1970s. Her character represented the frustration many people felt when dealing with large corporations and bureaucratic institutions. But despite her sharp tongue, Ernestine was also a sympathetic character who genuinely cared about her customers. Her catchphrase, "One ringy-dingy, two ringy-dingies," is still remembered fondly by fans today.
The Tasteful Lady Character
One of the lesser-known Laugh In characters played by Lily Tomlin was the Tasteful Lady, a prim and proper woman who offered up hilarious advice on etiquette and social graces. The Tasteful Lady was always impeccably dressed and spoke in a refined accent, but her advice was often anything but conventional. She once advised a caller to put a lobster on her head to cure a headache and suggested using a live chicken as a doorstop.
The Tasteful Lady was a commentary on the absurdity of societal norms and the pressure to conform. Her character was a reminder that sometimes it's okay to let loose and have a little fun. While not as well-known as Edith Ann or Ernestine, the Tasteful Lady was still a beloved character and a testament to Lily Tomlin's versatility as a performer.
The Legacy of Lily Tomlin and Laugh In
Lily Tomlin's characters on Laugh In were groundbreaking in their time and continue to be beloved by fans today. Tomlin's ability to embody a wide range of characters was a testament to her talent as a performer and her keen observation of human behavior. Her characters resonated with audiences because they were relatable, funny, and often a little bit subversive.
But Tomlin's legacy extends far beyond her work on Laugh In. She has continued to be a force in the entertainment industry, starring in films like Nine to Five and The Incredible Shrinking Woman and winning multiple Emmy Awards for her work in television. She has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights and a supporter of progressive causes.
In conclusion, Lily Tomlin's characters on Laugh In were some of the most iconic in television history. From the precocious Edith Ann to the sassy Ernestine, Tomlin's ability to inhabit a wide range of characters was truly remarkable. Her legacy as a performer and an advocate for social change continues to inspire audiences today.
Komentar
Posting Komentar