Tim Conway’s Hilarious Swine Flu Skit from The Carol Burnett Show
Some comedy never goes out of style — and Tim Conway’s unforgettable performance as Dr. Percy in a classic skit from The Carol Burnett Show proves just that. In this brilliantly absurd segment, Tim plays a doctor who volunteers to undergo an experimental treatment to cure swine flu. What follows is a spiral of unexpected side effects that leaves both the characters and the audience in stitches.
Let’s face it: most people dread going to the doctor, especially when shots are involved. But in this sketch, Tim’s character not only embraces the idea of being stuck with needles — he practically signs up for it with a smile. Appearing alongside Carol Burnett and Harvey Korman, Tim delivers a comedic performance that starts off mild, but quickly escalates into classic chaos.
A Sketch Full of Laughs and Legendary Timing
At first, everything seems fine. Dr. Percy is calm, cheerful, and full of hope that the experimental shots will help science find a cure. But when he briefly steps out and returns, something is clearly off — and the results are side-splitting. One of the funniest moments comes when Dr. Percy casually starts eating a banana peel like it’s the most natural thing in the world. Harvey Korman, as usual, can barely keep a straight face while Carol Burnett somehow manages to hold it together.
But the hilarity doesn’t stop there. Near the end of the nearly eight-minute sketch, Carol’s character begins to show the same bizarre symptoms, taking the gag to another level of absurd fun. It’s a classic moment of comedic escalation — one where timing, physical humor, and impeccable delivery all come together seamlessly.
A Show That Still Delivers Decades Later
Even decades after its original airing, The Carol Burnett Show remains a comedy treasure. The chemistry between Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, and Carol Burnett was truly special. They weren’t just performing — they were enjoying every second together, often trying to make each other laugh on stage. And in this case, Tim’s antics win out once again, breaking Harvey down into barely contained laughter.
It’s the kind of humor that doesn’t rely on shock or spectacle, but on talent, timing, and genuine joy. This sketch is a perfect reminder of why Tim Conway remains a comedy legend and why The Carol Burnett Show is still beloved by fans around the world.