Tim Conway’s Legendary Stair Fall: A Carol Burnett Show Classic
One of the most unforgettable moments in the history of The Carol Burnett Show came from a single, unplanned twist by comedic genius Tim Conway. It was a decision that not only caught his co-stars off guard but became one of the most beloved bits of live television comedy ever aired.
During rehearsals for the soap-opera spoof As the Stomach Turns, Conway descended a flight of stairs at a normal pace. But when it came time for the live performance, he reinvented the moment—falling down the stairs in exaggerated slow motion. The shift was so unexpected and perfectly executed that Harvey Korman and Carol Burnett struggled to stay in character, turning away to hide their laughter in a scene that instantly became iconic.
This sketch also marked the debut of Conway’s “Oldest Man” character, known for his painstakingly slow movements and deadpan delivery. Burnett would later explain that fans wrote in to ask if the clip had been edited or slowed down in post-production. “Not so,” she said. “It was Tim’s doing, all the way.”
Playing Dr. Hoffer, Korman could barely contain himself, shaking with suppressed laughter, while Burnett tried—and failed—to conceal her reaction behind her costume. These genuine breaks, captured on live television, became part of the show’s charm, showcasing how Conway’s unexpected brilliance could derail even the most seasoned performers.
A Master of Surprise
Tim Conway’s comedic style wasn’t about stealing the spotlight. “I would much rather stand in the background and make small, funny things,” he once said. But that quiet approach made his contributions invaluable. Whether as the Oldest Man, Mr. Tudball, or countless other characters, Conway’s genius lay in his timing, his physical control, and his commitment to surprise.
He became a full-time cast member in 1975 after years as a recurring guest, and his presence quickly became essential. Few could do so much with so little, and his stair fall remains a shining example of how pure physical comedy, executed with restraint and confidence, can leave an audience—and an entire cast—in stitches.
Conway passed away in 2019 at the age of 85. Carol Burnett described him as “one in a million,” praising his talent, humility, and kindness off-camera. His sketches, especially moments like this stair tumble, remain timeless reminders of what makes comedy great: not just big laughs, but real ones shared between friends.
As Tim Conway once said himself, if you want to visit him again, all you have to do is press play.