Amy Poehler’s Heartfelt Compliment to Carol Burnett Sparks Widespread Praise on Aging Gracefully

6 February 2026 Entertainment

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — In a rare and deeply moving moment on her acclaimed podcast Good Hang, Amy Poehler paid a compliment to comedy icon Carol Burnett that has resonated with fans worldwide, sparking a fresh dialogue about aging gracefully in Hollywood. The exchange, which took place during a recent episode featuring the 92-year-old star, has garnered over two million views across social media platforms and left hundreds of listeners teary-eyed and inspired.

Amy Poehler, known for her thoughtful and genuine interview style, asked Burnett about the joys and challenges of growing older. Burnett, reflecting on her 90s with characteristic humor, joked that the best part of being in her 90s was “not being 105.” When Poehler followed up by asking if Burnett still felt like a kid inside, Burnett replied that she felt 11 years old on the inside. It was Poehler’s heartfelt response that truly struck a chord: “When I’m with you, I feel 11, too.”

This simple yet profound compliment has been widely praised for its warmth and authenticity, offering a refreshing counter-narrative to the often ageist and superficial discussions surrounding women in Hollywood. Fans and commentators alike have lauded Poehler’s words as a beautiful affirmation of inner youth and vitality, transcending the pressures of aging in the entertainment industry.

The conversation also touched on Burnett’s rich history in comedy, including anecdotes about climbing the Hollywood sign as a child and her friendship with Lucille Ball, providing a nostalgic glimpse into Hollywood’s golden era. Photographs shared during the episode juxtaposed a 22-year-old Burnett in 1955 with her present-day self, highlighting the grace and vitality she continues to embody.

Poehler’s approach to interviewing, characterized by empathy and curiosity, has earned her acclaim beyond this episode. Previously, her conversation with singer Ariana Grande about the late artist’s grandmother went viral for its tenderness, as did her nuanced discussion with actress Aubrey Plaza about grief and loss. These moments underscore Poehler’s unique ability to navigate difficult topics with sensitivity and insight.

The impact of Poehler’s compliment extends beyond entertainment circles, touching on broader societal attitudes toward aging. The National Institute on Aging emphasizes the importance of positive perceptions of aging for mental and physical health, a message Poehler’s words vividly reinforce. By celebrating the enduring youthful spirit within, Poehler and Burnett challenge the stigma often associated with growing older, especially for women in the public eye.

Listeners can experience this heartfelt exchange by streaming the episode on popular podcast platforms or viewing clips on YouTube. The episode’s viral success on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram has sparked widespread conversation, with fans sharing personal reflections on aging and the power of genuine connection.

As Hollywood continues to grapple with issues of representation and ageism, moments like this between Amy Poehler and Carol Burnett offer a hopeful vision. They remind us that aging is not a decline but a continued journey filled with humor, friendship, and the timeless joy of feeling young at heart.

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