They were the stars of the small screen in the early years of television, and much of the nation came to a halt whenever their shows aired. As the originators of these innovative television formats, they provided an essential escape for millions of viewers. This episode includes the first standup comediennes to appear on television, including Joan Rivers and the late Phyllis Diller. Funny Ladies also looks at Lucille Ball’s breakthrough on I Love Lucy and the sitcom stars who followed, including Mary Tyler Moore, Betty White and Marla Gibbs. Also, television’s most beloved variety star, Carol Burnett.