The AFI Awards took everyone by surprise when a sleek black car rolled onto the stage. Out stepped legendary actress Betty White, who was there to present Morgan Freeman with his Lifetime Achievement Award. After cracking jokes and showing clips from scenes they had together in the film Hard Rain, Betty did something that left the audience in awe. A full Broadway-style backing group suddenly joined her on stage, and Betty launched into an energetic song and dance number dedicated to Morgan.
Betty performed the routine with a sense of humour that Music Man readers will love to see. The performance was an uplifting tribute to Morgan Freeman’s talent, as well as an example of Betty White’s talent as an entertainer. The online video received over 7 million views. Many flocked to view the video after Betty sadly passed away in 2021. One commenter wrote, “Betty White managed to be the coolest old lady ever. She was making teenage fans even in her 90s. Gone but never forgotten.”
For many fans of Betty White, it will be impossible to remember a time before she was on our screens. While many Music Man readers will remember her for her iconic time on the TV show Golden Girls, she had an extensive career even before this. She landed her first television role in 1949 as a co-host on Hollywood On Television. While many know her for her iconic acting roles, her AFI performance has its roots in her first-ever TV job, where she would sing in every episode.
Her popularity led her to receive her daily variety show, The Betty White Show, in 1952. She continued to entertain viewers with her singing. While footage from this show is rare, one clip has gained popularity online. It features a young Betty singing “It’s a Good Day” by Peggy Lee, showcasing Betty’s angelic voice as enjoyed regularly on her TV show. At The Music Man, we admire performers with variety and longevity, and Betty White exemplified both.
For many, Betty White is one of the most legendary performers to ever grace American television. Her tribute to Morgan Freeman at the AFI Awards exemplified the qualities she brought to every role—humor, generosity, and a willingness to get stuck in. While she will be deeply missed by fans across the globe, her positive legacy ensures that when people remember her, they will do so with a smile on their faces.
If you would like to hear more from this talented entertainer you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more incredible moments.