This sounds like an unfortunate encounter with one of the best actresses of her time.
Lily Tomlin has spoken candidly about a Lucille Ball encounter that made her feel ashamed and on the verge of tears. The renowned actress and comedian, who has received multiple awards and other honors over her career, recently discussed the unfortunate encounter in an interview.
Tomlin admitted to being “completely mad for Lucille Ball” in an AARP interview, stating, “In my 30s, I saw an article where she reviewed newer comics. When she got to Lily Tomlin, she wrote, ‘I just don’t get her.’ I could have wept.”
This harsh insult almost made her want to cry, and as she recalled the incident, it was evident that the remark still hunts her today. The good thing was that Tomlin had the chance to meet Ball in person and have a wonderful time.
In fact, after some time had passed, a friend set up a dinner for Tomlin and Ball. Considering the said insult, the comic was first afraid, but the evening ended well. During dinner, Ball told a remarkable story about getting a terrible toothache the morning before her flight to New York.
To aid with pain relief, her dentist had advised her to take a sip of brandy, swish it around her mouth, and then spit it out. Ball, however, was forced to drink the cognac because there was nowhere to spit on the aircraft. As a result, she was drunk when she touched down in New York.
Tomlin laughed as she recalled the memory, saying, “Now, imagine sitting at dinner with Lucille Ball acting out a story like that. She looked exactly like Lucy! We never met again, but I will treasure that memory forever.”
The Tony Awards winner became well-known in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a frequent performer on the hit television program “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.” She also appeared on “The Carol Burnett Show,” where she demonstrated both her acting and comedic flexibility.
Ball’s criticism initially hurt, but Tomlin’s interaction with her serves as a reminder that opinions can shift and even the most formidable individuals may have a softer, more human side. It also demonstrates how forgiveness and second chances may result in unforeseen friendships and touching moments.