Tim Conway didn't take a technical approach to comedy
Like any good art form, the approach to comedy tends to vary depending on the comedian. For some, preparation is best, with each joke carefully scripted before it goes live to an audience. However, others find that they work best under pressure and that their best ideas come from improvisation. These comedians thrive during off-the-cuff performances, with an intuition that serves them well in their careers.
Tim Conway was a comedian who preferred the "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" approach to comedy. Conway was known for his improvisational skills, which he often showcased during his time on The Carol Burnett Show.
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In an interview with The Shreveport Journal, Conway spoke plainly about his comedic approach. "I just do it and consider myself lucky when it comes out funny," he said.
Luckily for Conway, more often than not, the material was more than funny, it was hilarious.
In an interview with the Independent, Harvey Korman, Conway's longtime collaborator and costar on The Carol Burnett Show, confessed that Tim's method of acting frequently affected him on stage, no matter how much Korman prepared.
"No matter how many times we rehearse, Tim never does anything the same way," Korman said. "He's got a great comic mind and he's always testing new gags or bits of business. I can't help falling apart because I'm one of his greatest fans. It's his fault I break up. It's impossible to be around him and keep a straight face."
The article specifically mentioned that Carol Burnett, who brought Conway into her series, called the actor a "genius," a title that we feel is well-earned.
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