Vicki Ann Lawrence (born March 26, 1949, sometimes credited as Vicki Lawrence Schultz) is an American actress, comedienne and singer. She is known for the many characters she originated on CBS's The Carol Burnett Show where she appeared from 1967 to 1978, for the entire series run. One such character, The Family matriarch Thelma Harper/Mama, would later be the central character of the television situation comedy series Mama's Family on NBC and, later, in first-run syndication.