Vicki Lawrence is one of those rare entertainers whose career has spanned more than five decades and touched every corner of the entertainment world. Whether you remember her as the unforgettable “Mama” on The Carol Burnett Show or from her own sitcom Mama’s Family, Vicki has left an indelible mark on American television. Fans often wonder about her age, career longevity, personal life, and health journey.
Born in the late 1940s, Vicki’s humour, quick wit, and relatable charm have made her a household name across generations. This article explores Vicki Lawrence’s age, early background, career highlights, net worth, Family, and even fun facts about her personality. We’ll also discuss how she continues to impact pop culture and social media today.
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Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Vicki Ann Axelrad |
| Stage Name | Vicki Lawrence |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1949 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 76 years |
| Place of Birth | Inglewood, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish-American |
| Height | 5 ft 6½ in (1.69 m) |
| Weight | 128 lbs (58 kg) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Red (natural/dyed) |
| Body Type | Average |
| Occupation | Actress, Comedian, Singer, Host |
| Parents | Howard Axelrad (Father), Ann Alene Axelrad (Mother) |
| Siblings | Joni Lawrence (Sister) |
| Marital Status | Widowed (married to Al Schultz until 2024) |
| Children | Courtney Allison Schultz, Garrett Lawrence Schultz |
| Net Worth (2025) | $8 – $10 million |
| Notable Works | The Carol Burnett Show, Mama’s Family, Win, Lose or Draw, Hannah Montana |
Who Is Vicki Lawrence?
Vicki Lawrence, born Vicki Ann Axelrad on March 26, 1949, is an American actress, comedian, singer, and television personality. She rose to fame as a young comedian on The Carol Burnett Show and later solidified her television legacy by starring as “Mama” in Mama’s Family. Known for her comic timing and warm personality, Lawrence quickly became one of television’s most cherished entertainers.
She didn’t stop at comedy. Vicki also demonstrated her musical talent when she released her chart-topping hit song, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” in 1973. Beyond acting and singing, she ventured into hosting, writing, and live performance tours. Her dynamic versatility and natural charisma made her a powerful force in Hollywood and beyond.
Early Life and Background
Vicki Lawrence was born in Inglewood, California, to Howard and Ann Alene Axelrad. Her father worked as an accountant, while her mother was a homemaker. She grew up alongside her sister, Joni, in a loving and supportive household that encouraged creativity and education.
From an early age, Vicki displayed a flair for performing. She participated in school plays, talent competitions, and was a cheerleader at Morningside High School. Her early exposure to performing arts paved the way for her future in entertainment.
A life-changing moment came when a local newspaper noted her striking resemblance to comedian Carol Burnett. On a whim, Vicki wrote to Burnett and included the article with it. That bold gesture earned her an invitation to audition for The Carol Burnett Show, setting her on a path to stardom at just 18 years old.
Her upbringing, discipline, and willingness to take risks became defining traits that shaped her extraordinary career.
Personal Life and Relationships
Vicki Lawrence’s personal life has been as full and meaningful as her career. She’s known for her strong family values and enduring relationships.
- First Marriage (1972–1974):
- Vicki was first married to singer-songwriter Bobby Russell, who wrote her hit song The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia. The marriage ended amicably after two years.
- Second Marriage (1974–2024):
- She later married Al Schultz, a respected Hollywood makeup artist. Their marriage lasted 50 years until his passing in 2024. They shared an unbreakable bond filled with mutual respect and support.
- Children:
- Together, they raised two children: Courtney Allison Schultz (born 1975) and Garrett Lawrence Schultz (born 1977). Both children live private lives away from the spotlight.
Vicki’s long-lasting marriage and family life are testaments to her stability and grounded nature in an industry known for its turbulence.
Career and Achievements
Vicki Lawrence’s career is a masterclass in versatility and longevity. Here are her major milestones:
- The Carol Burnett Show (1967–1978):
- Vicki joined the show as a teenager and became one of its standout performers. Her comedic chemistry with Burnett, Harvey Korman, and Tim Conway earned her critical acclaim and an Emmy Award.
- The Mama’s Family Era (1983–1990):
- Vicki’s character, “Mama Thelma Harper”, was so beloved that she was given her own sitcom. Mama’s Family ran for six successful seasons and became a cult favourite in syndication.
- Music Career:
- Her 1973 single The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing her status as a multi-talented performer.
- Hosting & Talk Shows:
- She hosted “Win, Lose or Draw” and later her own talk show, “Vicki!“, which aired from 1992 to 1994.
- Stage & Touring:
- Her live show, “Vicki and Mama: A Two-Woman Two-Woman Show,” continues to entertain audiences nationwide.
- Recent Work:
- She appeared in Hannah Montana as Mamaw Stewart, introducing her to a new generation of fans.
Her career success can be attributed to her adaptability, sense of humour, and genuine connection with her audiences.
Net Worth Overview
Vicki Lawrence has built impressive wealth through her decades of work in entertainment, spanning television, music, and touring.
| Year / Period | Estimated Net Worth | Key Sources of Income |
| Early 2000s | $4 – $6 million | Reruns, touring, and residuals |
| 2010s | Around $8 million | Increased royalties and live performances |
| 2020–2025 | $8 – $10 million | Television reruns, appearances, and real estate holdings |
Vicki’s wealth has remained consistent over time, supported by residuals from her shows, smart real estate investments, and steady touring income.
Major Sources of Income
- Television Residuals:
- Ongoing royalties from The Carol Burnett Show and Mama’s Family remain her primary income sources.
- Music Royalties:
- Her hit single continues to earn from streaming and licensing.
- Live Performances:
- Touring with Vicki and Mama provides both income and fan engagement.
- Guest Appearances:
- Paid appearances on talk shows, panels, and conventions add to her revenue.
- Hosting Roles:
- Past earnings from Win, Lose or Draw and Vicki! Remain part of her career income.
- Investments:
- Property holdings and financial investments have helped sustain her wealth.
Luxurious Lifestyle
While not known for extravagance, Vicki Lawrence enjoys a comfortable and elegant lifestyle befitting her long career.
- She lived in a beautiful home in Long Beach, California, with her late husband, which featured classic décor and stunning ocean views.
- Her wardrobe and accessories reflect timeless Hollywood class rather than flashy trends.
- Vicki enjoys travelling for both work and leisure, often combining her tours with vacations.
- She prefers privacy and serenity, maintaining a life away from gossip and tabloids.
- Her calm demeanour, healthy lifestyle, and love of humour keep her both grounded and youthful.
Her luxury lies in contentment, Family, and the ability to continue doing what she loves.
Hobbies and Fun Facts
Vicki Lawrence is recognized for her vibrant personality and diverse interests, which extend beyond the spotlight.
- Performer at Heart:
- She loves touring and performing live, often connecting with her audiences on a personal level.
- Advocate for Health:
- She openly discusses her experience with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), raising awareness for others living with the condition.
- Author:
- Her autobiography, Vicki! The True Life Adventures of Miss Fireball offers behind-the-scenes stories and personal insights.
- Music Enthusiast:
- She continues to enjoy music and occasionally revisits her singing roots during live events.
- Theatre Lover:
- She has acted in several stage productions, including Hello, Dolly! and Annie Get Your Gun.
- Down-to-Earth Humour:
- Despite fame, she remains approachable, witty, and grounded.
- Television Historian:
- She appreciates classic television and supports preserving its legacy for new generations.
- Inspiration for Women:
- As one of the few women to host a successful game show, she paved the way for others in entertainment.
Vicki’s charm lies not just in her talent but in her authenticity and zest for life.
Future Prospects
At 76, Vicki Lawrence continues to embrace life with passion and energy. Her future remains bright thanks to her diverse talents and enduring fan base.
- Continued Touring:
- She plans to continue performing her “Vicki and Mama” show across the U.S.
- Possible Memoir or Documentary:
- Fans anticipate a deeper dive into her career through future projects.
- Health Advocacy:
- She may expand her role in spreading awareness about chronic urticaria and women’s health.
- Guest Appearances:
- Expect her to continue making occasional cameos on talk shows and nostalgic TV specials.
- Mentorship:
- With her wealth of experience, she may guide young comedians and actors entering the industry.
Vicki’s passion for performing and connecting with audiences ensures her legacy will only grow with time.
Impact on Social Media
Though she rose to fame long before social media existed, Vicki Lawrence has adapted impressively to the digital era.
- Active Engagement:
- She interacts with fans through social media, sharing tour updates, memories, and personal reflections.
- Fan Communities:
- Clips from The Carol Burnett Show and Mama’s Family continue to trend on YouTube and Facebook, keeping her legacy alive.
- Health Advocacy Online:
- Her openness about living with chronic urticaria has inspired online discussions and awareness.
- Intergenerational Popularity:
- Appearances on shows like Hannah Montana helped introduce her to younger viewers who now follow her online.
- Positive Influence:
- Her humour, humility, and longevity make her a role model for entertainers who adapt to modern platforms.
Vicki’s online presence reflects the warmth and accessibility that have always defined her public image.
Social Media Profile
| Platform | Link |
| Wikipedia | Click here |
| Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How old is Vicki Lawrence in 2025?
Vicki Lawrence is 76 years old, born on March 26, 1949.
Q2. What are Vicki Lawrence’s most famous shows?
Her most popular works include The Carol Burnett Show, Mama’s Family, Win, Lose or Draw, and Hannah Montana.
Q3. What is Vicki Lawrence’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $8 million and $10 million.
Q4. What health condition does Vicki Lawrence have?
She has openly shared her experience living with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a condition involving recurring hives.
Q5. Is Vicki Lawrence still working?
Yes, she continues to tour with her comedy show, “Vicki and Mama,” and remains active in television and advocacy.
Conclusion
Vicki Lawrence’s journey from a small-town California girl to an Emmy-winning star is nothing short of inspiring. Her age — 76 years young in 2025 — is just a number compared to the decades of laughter, music, and joy she’s brought to millions.
Her professional legacy spans comedy, music, acting, and philanthropy, while her personal life reflects loyalty, love, and integrity. With a net worth of around $8–10 million, Vicki remains an example of how passion and perseverance can lead to lifelong success.
Even today, she continues to entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences across generations. From Mama’s Family to the modern stage, Vicki Lawrence proves that true talent never grows old — it only gets better with time.
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