Parkinson Interviews: George Burns & Walter Matthau 1976

[@elizabethlinsay9193]

Three gentlemen, so rare. Well-dressed, well-spoken, considerate of each other. No swearing and very funny!

[@QueenBee-mk8xm]

shows that the swearing is totally unnecessary

[@tankbuggeru]

@@QueenBee-mk8xm Although swear words are not funny themselves, they may improve a joke or a story if used correctly.

[@QueenBee-mk8xm]

@@tankbuggeru I don´t agree that they improve a joke. They can change the impact of the joke, yes, but improve, no I would say not necessary.

[@jonathanrice1070]

Swearing made George Carlin even funnier.

[@QueenBee-mk8xm]

@@jonathanrice1070 no, just vulgar

[@_Ben4810]

Great that Walter mentioned his WW2 wartime posting to Old Buckenham & the 453rd... I have very happy memories of that village from my schooldays 👌✌👍

[@ianthomas5955]

Sheer unmitigated magic. I'd never seen Walter Matthau interviewed before and was amazed how funny, modest and likeable he is. Maybe Russell Brand could take a look at this and gaze in awe at a concept that would be alien to him - hugely talented comedy genius with impeccable delivery and timing.

[@signman1063]

This is what, "Respecting your Elders" looked like.

[@maryminty5876]

What a privilege, I grew up listening to this sort of humour through the wonder of radio. Now at 92 I seek it out.....perennial humour never dies. It has carried me through life, thanks to my early influence. Salute.

[@nathelondon3719]

George Burns was unprecedented, unique, unparalleled and can never be equaled or repeated. Sharp, clean, witty, smartly dressed at 100. Shalom & RIP.

[@reason43poole37]

And so cool.

[@ghanasoul]

Watchin this I can see why George Burns lived 100 yrs. His spirit is young, his energy is young, his mind is young. He basically took over this interview. Walter is loving it. This is what talk shows were about. Real conversations with real talent.

[@scarfhs1]

That is what was so good about Parkinson, he got great guests and let them talk.

[@NickJay]

I totally agree and probably why Michael was, arguably, the best chat show interviewer there was. He genuinely loved the people on his show and he would let them speak and go wherever they wanted to go, which is what helped to make it so enjoyable.

[@anitagrey3735]

@@scarfhs1 Hello

[@johnmcdyer7297]

Oh yes fab😊

[@steveadams9289]

Seeing these two greats Tells a lot about how great they were Beyond time Funny Without Any bad language They both were humble too

[@---John---]

Lord, I wish we had great actors today like we had back then! We don't have anything but crap today.

[@lydialas8756]

@Hello John how are you doing

[@andrezelenkovas4266]

Matthau was a tremendous class act.

[@leftykoufax7084]

Amen

[@Glen-ft8ch]

Grumpy Old Men

[@tmrezzek5728]

Awesome interview. Matthau is just kicking back, digging George Burns and his storytelling, and so is the audience. And Burns' self-deprecating wit is outstanding.

[@mrj6676]

yes, Walter is just in awe and enjoyment

[@sfmc98]

Forty some years later, and these are still solid belly laughs. Not a single curse word or even really saucy idea. The way that they entertained was so sublime, not in any way over the top or raucous.

[@lenagreen4031]

Oh those were the days of pure talent and great comedy, never to be repeated or forgotten by we who were fortunate enough to have witnessed it.

[@Gods2ndFavoriteBassPlyr]

I think that's the first time I've ever seen George Burns genuinely let loose and Laugh. These three were amazing to watch in this interview, and Parkinson has an amazing style. He keeps things moving along .. but seems to be far more interested in getting his guests to talk.. than sounding off himself.

[@blackbird5634]

The pace is what I remember from back then. They allow each other a moment to speak, to create an atmosphere, there's room to laugh and to absorb the moment.

[@dorianphilotheates3769]

George Burns (1896-1996). Walter Matthau (1920-2000). Thanks for all the laughs, fellas - Requiescant In Pace

[@NickJay]

What a wonderful 39 minutes I've just spent watching 2 amazing gentlemen. Both sadly no longer with us but what a legacy they both left behind for future generations to love and enjoy - they and others of their ilk too.

[@niklar55]

Walter Matthau one of my favourite actors, whether doing comedy, or in a serious role, always entertaining.

[@sfmc98]

Both of these men are national and really international treasures. We don't know even know what we've lost.

[@Olsen65]

I guess we all came here for some empathy and warmth and weren't disappointed.

[@jeremyfrazier5935]

For sure

[@degsbabe]

Fantastic. Could listen to these legends all day. At 35:18 George gives a gentle nod to his great friend Jack Benny when he said he was 79 years old and intends to remain 79. Jack always maintained he was 39...and remained so.....

[@meirwise1107]

George Burns was a unique personage in the history of show business. He was sharp and funny to 100 years old. Smart, modest, in love with and faithful to Gracie's memory. There will never be another. There can't be.

[@fionathomson4436]

Your so right

[@jessfrankel5212]

What a terrific interview. Both Burns and Matthau were beyond great, if that's possible. "Enter!"

[@vincentconti3633]

Yes..enter! My father loved that line! Rip Pop!

[@LPJack02]

RIP George Burns (January 20, 1896 - March 9, 1996), aged 100 RIP Walter Matthau (October 1, 1920 - July 1, 2000), aged 79 RIP Sir Michael Parkinson (March 28, 1935 - August 16, 2023), aged 88 You will be remembered as legends.

[@Einstein1414]

I've Loved George Burn's singing All my life! God Bless him. What a Treasure he, Gracie, and Jack Benny were...

[@donpaulweatherpluspaul2670]

Completely delightful...the two of 'em! Mr. Parkinson conducted his interviews with warmth, and this was a great pleasure.

[@theguardian8317]

Indeed. Recently I've been seeing in youtube interviews from other shows with other classic actors and it's not uncommon that the hosts often appear to be obnoxious or even rude.

[@Lovelylove4everyone]

Have you Robert Mitchum on Parkinson? He was quite unpleasant.

[@jennifercurtis6071]

Why can't we have this standard of tv these days? A delight and well worth our tv licence. Thank you for this. Gentleman all three.

[@mikebradshaw6484]

We can if we get rid of cable.

[@danielveres4351]

"The last movie I made for MGM was 36 years ago. And they must have liked me 'cause they brought me back." Greatest line ever. :D

[@dgomez8015]

I laughed hard with that line.

[@alanscott6836]

Love Walter Mathau. Amazing badass performances - Maxie Fields in King Creole, opposite Burt Lancaster in The Kentuckian. Extremely cool character stuff like Charlie Varrick. And of course his comedy acting. A wit and raconteur. A genuine all round talent.

[@johnmcdyer7297]

Charlie varrick oh yes what a film fabulous

[@Phrixphrox]

19’45”-> Captain Betts and Flipper 😂 “Betts, I’ve never woiked with a seal, I wouldn’t know what to do… He says, you don’t have to worry about it, the seal does the whole thing…” 😂 🦭 🤣 I’ve listened to this many, many times now but it never fails to make me smile. George Burns, what a class act, and Walter Matthau too, sitting back & enjoying his performance and acting as straight man. This entire interview is superb.

[@elizabethhestevold1340]

Love these old stories, how Walter let George Burns talk. Lovely😎🤗🙏🇺🇸🇩🇰🥀

[@patrickroche8877]

☘️🇨🇮

[@stephenreeds3672]

Real talent! Matthau was a superb actor. A real person.

[@mr.grumpygrumpy2035]

Walther Matthau was fantastic. George Burns was FANTASTIC!

[@AmpasaurusWrecks]

Both of these gentlemen were so brilliant.

[@davidevans3227]

..thankyou david Benson, for sharing this.. fantastic.. 🙂

[@telemachus53]

Brilliant! They both have the essence of Jewish humour which is self deprecation yet happiness with one's lot.

[@gmaureen]

All 3 of these men were remarkable in their own way...loved them.

[@rosalinkrieger3352]

11:57 is where the hilarity begins! "will you behave like a human being for 5 seconds..." Best phone call comedy moment ever.

[@ianbanks2844]

Thank you for posting such a treasure .

[@philmclean2323]

A treat & a tonic. Warm conversation & soul refreshment.

[@andrewb2475]

Parkinson was a genius interviewer, knew exactly the right time to shut up and let the guest shine!.............A shame modern day hosts can't learn this.

[@Scripts360]

Amen!

[@johnbellamy6449]

Absolutely fantastic two wonderfully men .shame today's actors x comedians arnt so talented x professional today pure talent its lost forever when they die. Linda UK

[@tennisblood]

Walter Matthau - one of the most intelligent and funny actors, real favorite of mine "He is all right, He reads Shakespeare in the toilet..."

[@mckavitt]

Mystery Shopper Foooook you, idiot. (No Jew is that, it seems.)

[@zodiac890]

im much more impressed with charles manson

[@janinefarris2748]

Well what can I say the quality of the people seem to be a high Bar. It is this level these days that don't seem to meet up with this caliber these men. There are some exceptions. After watching the interview bye Michael Parkinson, it felt enriching observing the exchanges between the three parties a real Delight. This interview made me think of my dad and the love of my life which sing share that same dynamic in their bonding male friendships which may be very pleased and proud I in which I also felt enriched when I observe them bonding thought of them when I was watching this interview on KZbin distinguishes between men and boys. This interview reminded me of the way that the love of my life and my dad bonded way I saw Walter Matthau and George Burns relate to one another a dynamic that I appreciate between men of caliber a dynamic I look kind of love between them emerged. So I think you Michael Parkinson you added to the Delight of the exchanges and it left me feeling enriched one more time thank you for I give my homage to the real men in this world. difference that is if you haven't already but aspire to it it's a wonderful experience in growth that I observed in the male species aspired to be a man not just a male and there are many but they're need to many more.!

[@zodiac890]

@@mysteryshopper7296 lol

[@zodiac890]

the rich low life crooks always lie about other rich people making beleive they are very smart or very talented this american bs have been going on for many years no poor person is stupid enough to fall for it

[@siegridthomas9674]

WHAT A WONDERFUL interview...

[@marthadoody]

What a wodnerful interview. You can't go wrong with George and Walter. I'm so glad I grew up knowing these greats. Entertainment is not the same anymore, but at least we can still watch their work. That's the biggest beauty of the internet since TV stinks too.

[@roywinstanley9402]

A joy to watch.simply wonderful...thanks for sharing.

[@dubchile]

Brilliant. Ahh, those were the days, watching TV was actually enjoyable. It had an air of authenticity, because it was! 💖

[@johnmcdyer7297]

What a guy pair of them actually fabulous loved that

[@3henry214]

I was too young at the time, to fully appreciate or understand/interpret the humor of the comedy greats like Jack Benny, George Burns that heralded from Vaudeville or the contemporary greats of the time, such as Walter Matthau, Jackie Gleason, Jack Lemmon, Red Skelton... I am so thankful that videos like this are still around for me to enjoy them, now that age has smartened me up enough to be able to fully recognize, enjoy, appreciate and marvel at their pure talent, wit and class. Thank you, for posting this!! Pure gold.

[@thewomble1509]

The Odd Couple is one of my all time favourite films. Lemmon and Matthau were superb and the dialogue is just genius.

[@janinefarris2748]

I totally agree the The Odd Couple really stands out like no other comedy a genius Neil Simon but coupled with great actors and the right music it was ingenious

[@MarieKayali]

really great interview . thanks for uploading

[@dorianphilotheates3769]

What brilliant characters! Their talent and personalities really shine through in this interview. Ah, the good old days when comedians were actually funny...The show itself is so different from today’s nonsense. Host and guests interact very naturally. The tone is courteous and playful, casual and civilized - a joy to watch. You feel elevated and entertained at the same time: witty, relaxed, unpretentious, relevant, delightful. They had humour and gravitas perfectly balanced. Walter Matthau was a consummate actor - smart, earthy, human. George Burns, a legend! He started in vaudeville when he was only seven: imagine America in 1903! No ‘Kardashians’, no ‘Housewives’ franchises, no ‘Dr. Phil’ or ‘ Oprah’, no ‘Say yes to the dress’...and the President? He, too, was a rich New Yorker; but he was never a ‘reality’ TV star ⭐️. His name was Teddy Roosevelt.

[@albertus7516]

Delightful! Two troopers (who obviously are delighted with each other).

[@janinefarris2748]

And they should be delighted in one another quality begetting quality. Their exchange added to my delight

[@lydialas8756]

@Hello Albertus how are you doing

[@Tupelo927]

What an absolute treat! George was always delightful & Walter perfected the grumpy old curmudgeon in many films. Matthau was fabulous in "The Odd Couple" & "The Sunshine Boys." Be sure to check out two of his comedy films I don't hear referenced often enough- "A New Leaf" (written by & co-starring the brilliant Elaine May) & "First Monday in October" about a woman being added to an all-male SCOTUS bench (co-starring Jill Clayburgh) Both films are riotously funny. Matthau was a consummate actor!

[@Tupelo927]

@Selena sue It's unclear to which film you're referring as I specifically mentioned FOUR. If English is your native tongue, your communication skills are woefully lacking.

[@ShmuelWeintraub]

First Monday is one of my favourite films also. Lemmon and Matthau were in some classics together (OC, Buddy Buddy etc), but each also did many wonderful films in their own right. Have you seen Hopscotch?

[@koen8185]

@@Tupelo927 Selena went....

[@ingridlinbohm7682]

Don't worry about negative comments. I liked your comments. The New Leaf is one of my favourite films.

[@Tupelo927]

@@ingridlinbohm7682 Thank you for your kind words, Ingrid.

[@germainemaxwell4530]

George Burns & Jack Benny a Master Class in timing

[@lealopez9890]

It seemed ages, but I love watching the video many times! 🤗

[@pjfrog10]

That was just Great. Thanks.

[@scobrenano4248]

The whole chat was wonderful. I especially love Mr Burns' little song at the end.

[@wolfrider5618]

Darn I loved George Burns. Watching this brought pack great memories.

[@TCBElvisAPresley]

As with a lot of people, seeing this left me nostalgic for a past when class and decency was the norm, and not the exception. At least it seems like it from this side of the intervening decades that swept by like weeks. It's a very short trip from nostalgia to grief.

[@SantaCruzCowboy]

Thank you

[@Sameoldfitup]

“Has it ever struck you that life is all memory, except for the one present moment that goes by you so quick you hardly catch it going?”― Tennessee Williams..

[@matthewtreacy6994]

I love Matthau. What an actor.

[@motherstation]

I was a huge Burns and Allen fan. It was wonderful seeing Natty again. Thank you.

[@timharper3390]

GooGoo and Natty, perhaps the greatest duo of anyone’s lifetime.

[@johntosh0061]

The Parkinson Shows were really pieces of history. Thank god for them. Otherwise we would not have had insights into this guy, Jack Lemmon, Olivier, Guinness, Cagney et al.......

[@mattieparkinson9375]

The movie like this interview is hilarious and fascinating from beginning to end

[@davidhaber5304]

I could listen to burns telling stories for hours. Fascinating. Hysterical. What a life. Blessed man

[@coolmintypepper.297]

Miss these guys... so much !

[@kristynsotelo1452]

This is such a different look at Walter Matthau

[@reason43poole37]

What happened to us, this is so great, pure nostalgia.

[@theauthority1598]

oh the joy of a real chat show...they dont exist today,

[@SenorZorrozzz]

The Authority we don’t have them in America. Sad. The few which are supposed to be are argyle political talk with guests who are promoting movies etc. and are on for a few mins. then they leave. So for them, it’s a short promotional assignment.

[@gargantuaism]

@ What does your comment mean? I'm sure you are a hit at parties and you are quite creative but why did you write "Dumbness?" Try and make some sense and reply in a gentle way. OK go..

[@chrissnyder8415]

@@SenorZorrozzz that is what they were doing here. Promoting a movie.

[@johntheball]

Im 47 and have adored Mathou and lemon since i was a child Burt lancaster , william Holden and so many more from that time...Real Stars of substance..

[@edmccurdy469]

I have watched this specific video, be at work, trying to sleep or sheer study of 3 men mostly the comedy of George the rule of acting from Walter and the professionalism of Michael. The way that Walter speaks when talking of Peter Watson and the others...I could listen to George Michael or Walter for hours talking about complete nonsense and never get tired of it...and every time I see this video I tear up when burns is singing knowing that I no longer have the chance of getting to know great men like these. My role models though some of many. From a bygone era where people had more humor rather than be butt hurt by everything

[@Olddeadleadfoot]

I was 9 years old when this interview was filmed. Those were the days. Love those guys.

[@margaretgreenwood4243]

Wonderful Wonderful stuff AND actors with BRAINS ❤

[@johnharrington1800]

There will never be another one like George Burns.

[@theUroshman]

Can you believe that when George started acting the famous wild west sheriff, Wyatt Erp, was only in his 50's? And, yes, George Burns lived to be a hundred, but wouldn't it be nice if could have been able to just keep on going forever? He's one of those people you really hate to lose!

[@mckavitt]

theUroshman Wyatt Earp. 🤓🎓✍️

[@scottknode898]

theUroshman Wyatt Earp died in 1929 at age 80 and George Burns started acting in films in the 1920s before he did stage work.

[@dcdel1]

For me a brilliant actor, very quick brain,they don’t make them like this anymore !

[@tramlad2]

I could listen to Walter all day, a fascinating and funny man, brilliant actor.

[@mickangel3945]

Back in the days when celebs had something interesting to say.

[@musicuniverse1356]

Now they just babble about subjects they know nothing about and it’s quite frankly embarrassing.

[@victorformosa2825]

I agree, even though the word celebs wasn't bandied around at that time.

[@iTube22100]

Mr Parkinson read my mind. I was thinking, nice to get paid to do this job, talking to guests like these !! ahahahah

[@TheRealDrJoey]

This is really great stuff. Burns was on fire, if you 'll pardon the pun.

[@juniemoonhagan4844]

Marvelous, thank you so much for this :-)

[@hoyboys1000]

Excellent - Thank you very much!

[@AprilScott-ke9fn]

I'd love to see "The Sunshine Boys".

[@Laceykat66]

Jack Benny was supposed to play in The Sunshine Boys but sadly passed on before the movie was made.

[@d.l.l.6578]

Did anyone notice they didn’t interrupt each other? Hosts are butting in on guests all over the place today.

[@knownpleasures]

From this movie George got Oh God in 1977 which was a huge hit starring alongside John Denver

[@2_Trillion_galaxies]

Who would have thought looking at George Burns in this interview he had another twenty years to live,

[@IansOddInterests]

Lolo....the last lines the best........If you see something bad you’re not taking, throw it my way... I’ll do anything ...

[@XavierKatzone]

What a great interview!

[@katalinrobin6222]

Walter Matthau - my all time favourite

[@IansOddInterests]

Two real inspirational people.. from humble beginnings.... neither try and trump the other...brilliant

[@vincentconti3633]

That last joke ...when George Burns says he will take anything he can get ....was a setup...what an amazing interview.

[@musicplateau1]

They remind me so much of me and my late father-in-law, we were from either side of the pond and struck a note of humour that was just as infectious George & Walt's.

[@MiaJamesloveofvintage]

Thank you so much for this!

[@DavidBensonActor]

My pleasure

[@alantatchell6520]

Benidorm was

[@papalaz4444244]

We have lost all of this. It's a shame. People want everything condensed into a 20 second video.

[@pronemanoldbutyoung5548]

George Burns smoke and drank (drank moderate) his whole life and got to be 100 years old. What amazing genes

[@chrisl9620]

To be honest I never noticed what pants he was wearing.

[@raymichaels5022]

The last movie I did for MGM was 36 years ago, and they must have liked me because they bought me back.... 😂😂😂😂😂THAT COMPLETELY FLOORED ME!

[@joycegibbs5267]

this is when telly was worth the fees. Even the music to Parkinson was genius. Heatbreaking all these legends have gone and look at the narcessistic fakes we have replacing them.