Gina Heslop
As Carol Burnett approaches her 90th birthday, her life is a testament to both remarkable success and profound loss. Amidst her illustrious nine-decade career, the renowned comedian has endured the heart-wrenching pain of losing her beloved daughter, Carrie Hamilton, in 2002.
Carol Burnett candidly shares that not a day passes without her daughter’s memory filling her thoughts. She fondly remembers the moments they shared, from working together to laughing and crying as a team. Carrie was a formidable presence in her life, and her absence left an indelible mark.
Carrie Hamilton, following in her mother’s footsteps, pursued a career in acting. She achieved recognition through her role as Reggie Higgins in the “Fame” TV series, as well as in movies like “Tokyo Pop” and “Shag.” Their collaboration extended to the small screen when Carrie appeared in an episode of “Carol & Company” in 1990. Together, they even co-wrote a play titled “Hollywood Arms,” inspired by Carol Burnett’s memoir recounting her own childhood.
Despite her talents and achievements, Carrie faced harrowing battles with drug addiction. Tragically, in 2002, she was diagnosed with lung cancer that would later metastasize to her brain. In January of the following year, she passed away at the tender age of 38.
Carol Burnett cherishes a memory from Carrie’s hospitalization. A nurse once remarked that Carrie brought cheer to the hospital staff. Intrigued, Carol asked her daughter about her perpetual optimism, to which Carrie responded with a profound insight: “Every day I wake up and decide.” This simple yet powerful choice to decide her outlook on life left a lasting impression on her mother.
Now, as she approaches her 90th birthday, Carol Burnett embraces Carrie’s wisdom, making a daily choice to approach life with positivity and determination. She acknowledges the fragility of existence, emphasizing the importance of taking life one day at a time. Her message is clear: life is unpredictable, and we must treasure each moment, finding gratitude in the present for what we have.
Carol Burnett’s journey through fame and loss serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bond between a mother and her cherished daughter.
