Vicki Lawrence & Mama

Frequently Asked Questions

How old was Vicki Lawrence when she played Mama in Mama's Family?

Vicki Lawrence was just 33 years old when she first played Thelma Harper, known as "Mama,"

Did Vicki Lawrence play Mama?

Yes, Vicki Lawrence played Mama, also known as Thelma Harper, both on "The Carol Burnett Show" and in the spin-off sitcom "Mama's Family." The character of Mama originated in "The Family" sketches on "The Carol Burnett Show," where Lawrence, despite her young age, donned a gray wig, padded costume, and gravelly Southern accent to transform into the cantankerous matriarch. Her remarkable performance quickly became a fan favorite, leading to the creation of "Mama's Family" in 1983, with Lawrence reprising the role as the lead. Vicki Lawrence's portrayal of Mama is widely regarded as one of the most memorable comedic characters in television history, demonstrating her impressive range as a performer and solidifying her legacy in the world of comedy and television entertainment.

Did Carol Burnett get along with Vicki Lawrence?

Yes, Carol Burnett and Vicki Lawrence had a close and positive working relationship during their time on "The Carol Burnett Show." In fact, Carol Burnett played a pivotal role in Vicki Lawrence's career, personally selecting her to join the show when Lawrence was just a teenager. Burnett served as a mentor, helping to nurture Lawrence's talent and giving her ample opportunities to shine, including the creation of the beloved Mama character. Over the years, both have spoken highly of each other in interviews, emphasizing their mutual respect and friendship. Their strong chemistry was evident on screen, making their comedic sketches, especially "The Family,"

How old was Vicki Lawrence when she was on The Carol Burnett Show?

Vicki Lawrence was just 18 years old when she joined "The Carol Burnett Show" in 1967, making her one of the youngest cast members on the iconic comedy-variety series. She remained with the show throughout its eleven-season run, growing from a teenage newcomer into a seasoned performer. During her tenure, Lawrence showcased her versatility in a wide range of comedic and musical sketches. She first portrayed the character of Mama in "The Family"

Why was Mama's Family cancelled?

"Mama's Family" was initially cancelled due to low ratings and changes in network programming priorities. The sitcom first aired on NBC from 1983 to 1984 but struggled to find a consistent audience amid tough competition and frequent time slot changes. As a result, NBC cancelled the show after two seasons. However, the show's strong fan base and popularity in syndication led to its revival in 1986, where it found renewed success and continued for four more seasons until 1990. Ultimately, the series concluded due to the natural end of its syndication run, cast members pursuing new projects, and the evolving television landscape. Despite its cancellation, "Mama's Family" remains a cult classic, beloved for Vicki Lawrence's unforgettable performance and its unique blend of family-centric humor.