Betty White Brings Mischief and Laughter Back to NBC with “Off Their Rockers”
Interview conducted by Daedrian McNaughton for Premier Guide Miami
January 3, 2013
At 91 years old, Betty White continues to defy expectations by returning to the small screen for a second season of “Betty White’s Off Their Rockers,” which premieres on NBC on January 8. With her signature wit and charm, the seven-time Emmy Award winner brings along a crew of senior pranksters ready to deliver laughs and hilarious surprises. This season features special guest stars PSY and Kim Kardashian, who will appear in back-to-back episodes.
White’s camaraderie with her fellow cast members is palpable; she shares a special bond with Ed Asner, who also appeared on the show. “Oh, it was such fun, and Ed and I stay very close. We’ve always adored each other,” White reminisces. Their playful banter speaks to the enduring friendships that have defined White’s expansive career.
Reflecting on her recent collaboration with PSY, White likens his infectious spirit to that of a youthful firecracker. “He was very, very nice, and so funny,” she says. Though he didn’t officially teach her the famous “Gangnam Style” dance, she adds, “I tried to copy him anyway.”
For White, life and humor go hand in hand. She attributes her spirited nature to her upbringing, recalling how her father introduced her to the world of jokes. “I always see more than one meaning to a word,” she explains, highlighting her fondness for double entendres while firmly distinguishing them from dirty humor—“I don’t like dirty jokes, but I do enjoy a double entendre.”
When asked about the secrets to longevity, White emphasizes honesty as a vital trait. “The camera will know when you’re faking it every time,” she asserts candidly. Despite her extensive accomplishments, White maintains that retiring is not on her agenda. “Why quit something you’re enjoying so much?” she says, reflecting on the joy she finds in her work even at her advanced age.
As she prepares for another birthday celebration—this time a televised special courtesy of NBC—White displays an infectious enthusiasm for life. “Last year they did a Betty White’s 90th birthday party on television. We got nominated for an Emmy for it, and this year they’re doing another one on camera, which should be fun.” Her eyes sparkle with excitement as she shares her favorite memory from last year’s special: being showered with surprises from friends and celebrities that made her feel cherished.
However, White also understands the challenges that come with industry changes. When asked about the evolution of television, she remarks, “The audience has changed more than anything else.” Noting how viewers have become savvy to familiar tropes and storylines, she highlights that today’s entertainment landscape presents a greater challenge for writers.
Despite the boom of reality shows, she believes there is still a place for traditional sitcoms. “Every once in a while, just a good old-fashioned straightforward television show suddenly hits the spot,” she observes.
In a light-hearted moment, McNaughton asks White about her allure among younger men. With a cheeky smile, she replies, “Let’s face it. I enjoy men.” As their conversation weaves through topics old and new, one thing remains clear: Betty White is thriving, embracing her passions with zest and humor.
As she continues to leave a mark on television history, White embodies resilience and joy—not just for herself, but for audiences around the world. “I think I’ve done about as much as I can do. I’d just like to keep on doing the same thing,” she emphasizes, reminding us that pleasure can indeed be found in the simplest experiences.
For those who tune in to “Off Their Rockers,” expect to witness not just pranks, but a timeless spirit of laughter that keeps Betty White, and the generations who adore her, forever young.