Allison Janney has endeared herself to fans and lovers of comedy alike with her heartfelt storytelling about her friendship with fellow actress Carol Burnett. During a recent episode of CNN’s *Coming Up* podcast, the 66-year-old Oscar winner revealed that for the past four years, she has received a daily text from Burnett, a gesture that has become a cherished routine.
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Janney, well-known for her roles in both film and television, expressed her excitement about these messages, stating, “I play Wordle with her every day, so I get a text from Carol Burnett every day of my life for the last four years. It’s pretty exciting. Every time it doesn’t get old; I say, ‘Yep. Carol Burnett texted me!’ So that’s pretty great.” This delightful insight into their friendship highlights the joy that simple connections can bring to our lives.
The origins of their friendship can be traced back to their time working on the Apple TV series *Palm Royale*, which concluded earlier this year. In an earlier appearance on *Live with Kelly and Mark*, Burnett, now 93, discussed their daily Wordle challenge, noting that they both excel in the game. She humorously mentioned that she has managed to successfully guess the word of the day on her first attempt seven times.
As Janney elaborated on her relationship with Burnett during her podcast discussion, she described the actress as “my idol,” admitting that Burnett had a significant influence on her aspiration to become an actress. “I just adore her,” Janney shared. “Watching Carol Burnett, I dreamed of having my own Carol Burnett Show. She was very much why I wanted to be an actress.”
This admiration went beyond mere fandom, as Janney reflected on the rare opportunity to work alongside someone she deeply respects. She revealed her disbelief at calling Burnett a friend, exclaiming, “It’s so exciting for me. I pinch myself.” This sentiment resonates with many who have looked up to Burnett over the decades, as she has become a trailblazer and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
The connection between the two actresses is evidence of a genuine friendship, one that has allowed them to share joy through a simple game that has taken the world by storm. Wordle has amassed a significant following, becoming a daily ritual for many, and Janney and Burnett have embraced this trend with enthusiasm.
In a March 2024 interview with PEOPLE, Janney underscored the impact of working with Burnett on her career, humorously noting that her father now believes her profession is legitimate after seeing her collaborate with the comedy icon. “It’s the first time he was like, ‘Wait, what?’” she joked, highlighting the magnitude of the experience for her family.
*Palm Royale*, which is currently streaming on Apple TV, features a star-studded cast alongside Janney and Burnett, including talents like Kristen Wiig, Laura Dern, Ricky Martin, and Leslie Bibb. Their collective performances have garnered attention, but it is the engagement between Janney and Burnett that captures the essence of warmth and camaraderie, infusing their scenes with added charm.
In a world where digital communication can often feel impersonal, the daily text exchanges between Janney and Burnett remind us of the importance of personal connections, even in a technologically driven age. Their friendship, built on shared interests and mutual admiration, offers a heartening glimpse into the experiences that enrich our lives.
For fans of both actresses, this insightful look at their relationship is a reminder of how bonds may form in the most unexpected of ways. As Janney continues to celebrate her acting career, it is clear that her friendship with Burnett serves as an inspiring testament to the lasting power of mentorship and companionship in the world of entertainment.