Lily Tomlin, an American actress, comedian, and writer, has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy with her iconic character, Ernestine. Ernestine, a snarky telephone operator, became one of Tomlin’s most beloved and recognizable creations. With her distinctive hairdo and impeccable comic timing, Tomlin brought Ernestine to life, delivering hilarious and memorable lines that have become a part of comedy history.
Ernestine’s quotes are known for their razor-sharp wit and biting social commentary. Through her character, Tomlin satirized bureaucracy, corporate greed, and the frustrations of dealing with customer service. Ernestine’s catchphrases, like “One ringy-dingy” and “Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?”, have become ingrained in popular culture, often imitated and referenced in various comedic works.
But it wasn’t just the catchphrases that made Ernestine unforgettable. It was Tomlin’s masterful delivery and ability to infuse each line with a perfect blend of sarcasm, charm, and charisma. Her portrayal of Ernestine was larger than life, yet grounded in a relatable reality, making her an enduring and beloved character.
Lily Tomlin Ernestine Quotes
Ernestine, the iconic telephone operator character played by Lily Tomlin, has provided audiences with countless memorable and hilarious quotes. With her quick wit and sassy attitude, Ernestine never fails to entertain. Here are some of her most memorable lines:
- “Is this the party to whom I am speaking?”
- “We don’t care. We don’t have to. We’re the phone company.”
- “Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking, or is this somebody else?”
- “Ringy dingy!”
- “Just because we’re a monopoly, doesn’t mean we’re inefficient!”
- “One ringy dingy… two ringy dingy…
These quotes perfectly capture Ernestine’s unique blend of wit, sarcasm, and charm. Whether she was dealing with a frustrated customer or making a point about corporate bureaucracy, Lily Tomlin’s performance as Ernestine always left audiences in stitches. Her ability to bring the character to life with her comedic timing and hilarious delivery is truly unmatched.
Hilarious and Memorable Lines
Lily Tomlin’s character Ernestine often delivered laugh-out-loud lines that have become iconic in comedy history. Her quick wit and sharp tongue never failed to entertain audiences. Here are some of Ernestine’s most hilarious and memorable lines:
“One ringy-dingy! Two ringy-dingy!”
This catchphrase became instantly recognizable and is still imitated to this day. Ernestine would answer the phone in her nasal voice, exaggerating her annoyance at the constant ringing.
“We don’t care. We don’t have to. We’re the phone company.”
With this sarcastic line, Ernestine highlighted the monopoly and lack of customer service from telephone companies in the 1970s. It perfectly captured the frustration felt by many consumers at the time.
“Is this the party to whom I am speaking?”
This line was often uttered when Ernestine called someone on the telephone and was met with confusion or rudeness. It showcased her sassy and bold personality as she refused to be belittled.
“I am the customer. You are the employee. I am the party of the first part. You are the party of the second part.”
Ernestine used this line to assert her dominance as a customer and put employees in their place. It humorously highlighted the power dynamics between consumers and service providers.
“Have you been drinking again, Mrs. Aaaaaaaaaaaaabromowitz?”
This line was often directed at a recurring character named Mrs. Aaaaaaaaaaaaabromowitz. Ernestine’s exaggerated pronunciation of the name added an extra comedic touch to the punchline.
“When you’re dealing with me, Miss Tomlin, you’re dealing with the whole package.”
In this line, Ernestine asserted her authority and importance by referring to herself as the “whole package.” It showcased her self-confidence and ability to take charge of any situation.
Lily Tomlin’s portrayal of Ernestine was filled with unforgettable lines that left audiences in stitches. Her sharp and witty delivery cemented Ernestine’s place as one of the most beloved comedy characters of all time.
From the Comedy Icon
Lily Tomlin is considered one of the greatest comedy icons of all time. Her wit, talent, and unique characters have made her a household name in the world of comedy. Tomlin’s ability to bring laughter through her impersonations and hilarious one-liners has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
One of Tomlin’s most memorable characters is Ernestine, a snarky and sassy telephone operator. Ernestine’s famous line, “We don’t care; we don’t have to; we’re the phone company,” perfectly captures the sarcastic and clever humor that Tomlin brings to her performances.
Tomlin’s comedic genius and ability to create unforgettable characters have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She has won multiple Emmys, Tonys, and even a Grammy for her comedic albums.
In addition to her comedic talent, Tomlin is also an advocate for social issues and uses her platform to speak out on topics such as feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and the environment. Her unique blend of comedy and activism has made her an inspiration to many.
Whether it’s through her iconic characters or her thought-provoking comments on society, Lily Tomlin has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the world of comedy. Her humor and wit continue to entertain and inspire audiences today, making her a true comedy icon.
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Caption: Lily Tomlin, a comedy icon known for her hilarious characters and witty one-liners. |
The Birth of Ernestine
Ernestine is a beloved character created by the comedic genius, Lily Tomlin. The character first made her appearance on the sketch comedy show, “Laugh-In” in the late 1960s. Ernestine quickly became one of Tomlin’s most iconic and memorable characters, known for her unique voice, sharp wit, and sassy attitude.
The birth of Ernestine can be traced back to Tomlin’s fascination with switchboard operators. Inspired by their ability to eavesdrop on private conversations and offer snappy comebacks, Tomlin created the character of Ernestine, a no-nonsense telephone operator who takes great delight in frustrating both her callers and her supervisors.
Ernestine’s signature line, “one ringy-dingy, two ringy-dingy,” became an instant catchphrase and further solidified her status as a comedic legend. Tomlin’s portrayal of Ernestine was not only hilarious but also a biting satire of the corporate world and the frustrations of dealing with customer service.
The character of Ernestine resonated with audiences, who found her relatable and endearing. Tomlin’s impeccable timing and knack for physical comedy brought Ernestine to life, making her one of the most beloved and enduring characters in comedy history.
Throughout her career, Lily Tomlin continued to portray Ernestine in various formats, including television specials, stage performances, and even in animated form. The character has become synonymous with Tomlin’s name and has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
| Iconic Quotes | Year |
|---|---|
| “Is this the party to whom I am speaking?” | 1970 |
| “We don’t care. We don’t have to. We’re the phone company.” | 1972 |
| “Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?” | 1973 |
| “A gracious good afternoon. This is Ernestine, the telephone operator, the one you can’t fool.” | 1974 |
Ernestine’s legacy lives on, as she continues to entertain and inspire new generations of comedians. Her biting social commentary and quick-witted humor are timeless, making her an enduring symbol of comedy brilliance. Lily Tomlin’s creation of Ernestine will forever be remembered as a stroke of comedic genius.
Ernestine’s Classic Catchphrases
Ernestine, the iconic character created by Lily Tomlin, is famous for her witty and memorable catchphrases. With her snarky attitude and sharp tongue, she never fails to make audiences laugh. Here are some of Ernestine’s classic catchphrases that have stood the test of time:
“One ringy-dingy, two ringy-dingies” – Ernestine’s signature greeting when answering the phone. This simple phrase perfectly captures Ernestine’s quirky and playful personality.
“Is this the party to whom I am speaking?” – A sarcastic remark often used by Ernestine when encountering someone who is not particularly tech-savvy or struggling to communicate.
“We don’t care. We don’t have to. We’re the phone company.” – Ernestine’s sassy response when faced with a customer complaint or request. This line showcases Ernestine’s indifference and the power she holds as a representative of the phone company.
“Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?” – Another variation of Ernestine’s signature greeting, this phrase is often used to mock individuals who are confused or uncertain about who they are speaking to.
“That’s just a basic service. If you want any of the extras, it’s gonna cost you.” – Ernestine’s blunt explanation when discussing additional charges or fees. Her matter-of-fact tone adds a touch of cynicism to the situation.
“We’re the phone company. We don’t have to care.” – Ernestine’s unapologetic response to customer complaints or demands. This catchphrase emphasizes the monopoly-like power held by the phone company.
“I used to have real pretty hair, and then I started working for the phone company.” – Ernestine’s humorous remark about the toll her job has taken on her appearance. This line showcases her self-deprecating humor.
“Charging your account for supplies is one of our ways of saying, ‘We care’. About us.” – Ernestine’s sarcastic explanation for charging customers for supplies. This catchphrase reflects her cynical view on corporate policies and the prioritization of profit over customer satisfaction.
Note: These catchphrases became popular during Ernestine’s appearances on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” and have since become beloved quotes associated with the character.
Ernestine’s Take on Technology
Ernestine, the iconic character created by Lily Tomlin, has always had a humorous and insightful perspective on technology. With her big hair, oversized glasses, and snarky attitude, she never misses an opportunity to poke fun at the latest gadgets and trends.
One of Ernestine’s classic quotes about technology is, “We don’t care. We don’t have to. We’re the phone company.” This line perfectly captures her sassy and indifferent attitude towards the constantly changing world of technology.
Ernestine also had a lot to say about the rise of computers and the internet. She famously quipped, “I just got my new computer, and I can’t figure out why it won’t turn on. It’s probably overwhelmed by the amount of useless information out there.” With her disdain for the excess of information available online, she reminds us to take a step back and question the value of it all.
Not one to shy away from criticism, Ernestine once said, “The problem with these newfangled email things is that people think they can just send you a message whenever they want. Well, let me tell you, honey, I have a life, and I don’t need your spam cluttering up my inbox.” Her blunt take on the perceived invasion of privacy by email perfectly captures the frustration many people feel about unsolicited messages.
Ernestine’s hilarious take on technology serves as a reminder to not take ourselves too seriously in this fast-paced digital age. Her witty and sarcastic commentary provides a source of laughter in a world that sometimes feels overwhelming with all the latest gadgets and trends.
In conclusion, Ernestine’s take on technology is both amusing and thought-provoking. Through her one-liners and sharp observations, Lily Tomlin’s character sheds light on the quirks and absurdities of the ever-evolving tech world.
Ernestine’s Interaction with Customers
Ernestine, the hilarious and memorable character played by Lily Tomlin, was a telephone operator who delighted audiences with her quick wit and comedic antics. One of the funniest aspects of Ernestine’s character was her interactions with customers, which often left them both frustrated and entertained.
With her iconic nasal voice and signature catchphrase “one ringy-dingy,” Ernestine became a beloved character who represented the frustrations and absurdities of dealing with customer service. She was constantly interrupting, talking over customers, and asserting her authority as the all-knowing operator.
Ernestine’s interactions with customers were filled with sarcasm, snappy comebacks, and biting humor. She often mocked customers for their lack of knowledge or for simply being in need of assistance. Yet, despite her sometimes brash demeanor, Ernestine managed to charm audiences with her unique blend of sass and comedic timing.
One of Ernestine’s most famous quotes was “We don’t care, we don’t have to. We’re the Phone Company!” This line perfectly captured her dismissive and superior attitude towards customers. It showcased her belief in her own power and importance as an operator, even if it came at the expense of those she served.
Another memorable quote from Ernestine was, “Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?” This sly remark highlighted her knack for turning the tables on customers and making them question their own sanity. It was a clever play on words that perfectly encapsulated her mischievous and manipulative nature.
Ernestine’s interactions with customers not only provided laugh-out-loud moments, but also served as a commentary on the often frustrating experience of dealing with customer service. Her exaggerated antics and biting wit offered a humorous escape for audiences, reminding them that sometimes the best way to cope with difficult situations is to find humor in them.
Ernestine’s Social Commentaries
One of the most memorable aspects of Lily Tomlin’s iconic character, Ernestine the telephone operator, was her ability to hilariously comment on various social issues. With her unique wit and sharp observations, Ernestine shed light on the absurdities of the world around her. Here are some of her most hilarious and memorable social commentaries:
- “Is this the party to whom I am speaking? Because if it is, I have a few choice words for you and your so-called customer service.”
- “You know, it’s like a game of telephone out here – one person tells another, and by the time it gets to me, it’s a complete mess. Just like the communication in this country.”
- “I’m sorry, but I can’t process your request right now. We’re experiencing technical difficulties due to a severe case of bureaucracy.”
- “You want to know the real problem with society today? It’s the lack of common sense. People are so busy being politically correct that they forget to use their brains.”
- “Just remember, honey, money talks and everything else walks – especially when it comes to reaching a real person on the other end of this line.”
- “You see, the problem with society is that everyone is always in a rush. No one takes the time to really listen or understand each other. It’s all about instant gratification and moving on to the next thing.”
Ernestine’s social commentaries were not only hilarious, but they also served as a reminder for viewers to pause and reflect on the state of society. Through her comedic portrayal of a telephone operator, Lily Tomlin managed to create a character that could both make audiences laugh and make them think.
Ernestine’s Pop Culture References
Ernestine, the iconic and lovable character created by Lily Tomlin, was known for her witty and sassy remarks. One of the things that made Ernestine so relatable and entertaining was her clever references to pop culture. Throughout her sketches, Ernestine would often make hilarious jokes and comments that incorporated famous celebrities, movies, and TV shows.
For example, in one sketch, Ernestine is on a phone call and says, “I’m sorry, the number you have reached is no longer in service. Please hang up and try again. And if that doesn’t work, watch the last season of ‘Game of Thrones’ and then give it another shot!” This line perfectly captures Ernestine’s cheeky sense of humor and her ability to effortlessly incorporate current pop culture references into her dialogue.
Another memorable pop culture reference from Ernestine comes from her line, “We don’t just have great customer service, we have customer service that’s ‘Netflix and chill’ level good!” This line not only references the popular phrase “Netflix and chill,” but also highlights Ernestine’s confidence and pride in the quality of her customer service skills.
Ernestine’s pop culture references were not limited to just TV shows and movies – she also incorporated famous celebrities into her jokes. In one sketch, she says, “If you don’t believe I can handle your problem, just ask Taylor Swift – she knows I’m ‘fearless’ when it comes to getting things done!” This line showcases Ernestine’s self-assuredness and her ability to use celebrity references to add an extra layer of humor to her character.
Overall, Ernestine’s pop culture references were a key aspect of her comedic charm. Whether she was referencing the latest TV show, a popular movie, or a famous celebrity, Ernestine’s clever and timely references added an extra level of humor to her already hilarious character.
| Related Article: | Lily Tomlin Ernestine Quotes: Hilarious and Memorable Lines from the Comedy Icon |
Ernestine’s Impact on Comedy
Lily Tomlin’s character Ernestine is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in comedy history. Her portrayal of the sassy, no-nonsense telephone operator was not only hilarious but also groundbreaking in its impact on the comedy genre.
Ernestine’s character became a cultural phenomenon in the 1970s, reflecting the frustrations and quirks of the telephone industry during that era. Tomlin’s flawless comedic timing and witty delivery brought Ernestine to life, making her a relatable and memorable character for audiences of all ages.
Ernestine’s impact on comedy can be seen in her ability to satirize the corporate world and bureaucracy. Through her exaggerated mannerisms and catchphrases like “one ringy dingy” and “is this the party to whom I am speaking?,” Tomlin shone a light on the absurdity and inefficiency of large organizations.
In addition to her hilarious antics, Ernestine also challenged societal norms and pushed boundaries. As a female character playing a traditionally male-dominated role, Ernestine broke through gender stereotypes and paved the way for other female comedians to excel in the industry. Her success demonstrated that women could be just as funny and talented as their male counterparts.
Ernestine’s impact on comedy can still be felt today. Her influence can be seen in the work of many comedians who have followed in Tomlin’s footsteps. Her ability to blend satire, social commentary, and humor continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
| Quotes | Character |
|---|---|
| “Is this the party to whom I am speaking?” | Ernestine |
| “One ringy dingy!” | Ernestine |
| “We don’t care, we don’t have to, we’re the phone company!” | Ernestine |