Tim Conway and Harvey Korman’s Emmy Moment: When Comedy Took Over the Stage
On that unforgettable night, the bright lights of the Emmy Awards didn’t just shine on the winners—they illuminated one of television’s greatest comedy duos. Tim Conway and Harvey Korman, forever remembered for their legendary performances on The Carol Burnett Show, turned what could have been a standard acceptance speech into a spontaneous masterclass in laughter.
The Set-Up
The year was 2002, and Tim Conway had just won the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Performer in a Variety or Music Program. But instead of delivering a typical thank-you speech, Tim—ever the prankster—handed the microphone to his longtime partner, Harvey Korman. What followed was pure comedic brilliance.
The two slipped effortlessly into their familiar rhythm: Tim’s dry absurdity colliding with Harvey’s straight-man poise. Within moments, their improvised banter sent the entire audience into fits of laughter. The exchange wasn’t scripted, but it was magic—a moment that captured the essence of why audiences adored them.
Why It Still Resonates
The reason that clip still makes people laugh decades later is simple: it was authentic. The chemistry between Tim and Harvey wasn’t manufactured—it was born out of years of sketch comedy where Tim’s antics constantly tested Harvey’s composure. Every time Tim pushed the joke too far, Harvey’s laughter became part of the act itself.
Their 2002 Emmy appearance distilled that same spirit into a few unforgettable minutes. It transformed a formal Hollywood ceremony into a genuine moment of shared joy, reminding everyone that humor doesn’t need polish—it just needs connection.
What You’ll See
In the clip, Harvey begins composed and dignified, trying to give a proper acceptance speech. But Tim, standing beside him, can’t resist stirring things up. His interruptions, facial expressions, and perfectly timed nonsense throw Harvey completely off balance—until even he can’t hold back the laughter.
The audience rises in a standing ovation—not just to celebrate Tim’s win, but to honor the friendship and comedic brilliance that defined their careers. It was more than a speech; it was a shared memory, a living reminder of what made live television so exhilarating.
Watch the Moment
If you’ve never seen it, you’re in for a treat. This isn’t just another award acceptance—it’s a piece of television history. Watch as two masters of comedy do what they do best: make the world laugh, one unplanned moment at a time.
Even now, that clip stands as proof that true comedy doesn’t fade—it lives on in laughter that refuses to end.