Can a single sentence truly define a career, a moment in time, a clash of ideologies? Absolutely, especially when that sentence ignites a walk-off heard 'round the entertainment world. The incident in question: Chad Everett's infamous remark on the Dick Cavett Show, and the subsequent departure of Lily Tomlin, a moment that encapsulated the burgeoning feminist movement against the backdrop of 1970s television.

The year was 1972. The Dick Cavett Show, a late-night staple known for its intellectual and often provocative conversations, played host to what would become a legendary moment in television history. Chad Everett, then a prominent actor best known for his role in the CBS drama "Medical Center," and Lily Tomlin, the fiercely intelligent and comedic feminist icon, were guests. What started as a seemingly innocuous chat quickly devolved when Cavett, in an attempt to steer the conversation, asked Everett if he owned any pets. Everett's response, delivered with what some might perceive as a cavalier attitude, was a list that included "three horses, three dogs and a wife." The order, and the implication, hung heavy in the air. Cavett, sensing the shift in tone, questioned the order, giving Everett an opportunity to walk back the statement. Instead, he doubled down, infamously adding, "Shes the most beautiful animal I own."

Name	Chad Everett (born Raymon Lee Cramton)
Born	June 11, 1936, South Bend, Indiana
Died	July 24, 2012, Los Angeles, California (aged 75)
Occupation	Actor
Years active	1960s-2010s
Spouse(s)	Shelby Grant (m. 19662011, her death)
Children	2 daughters
Notable Role	Dr. Joe Gannon in "Medical Center" (1969-1976)
Other Notable Appearances	"The Dakotas," "Surfside 6," "77 Sunset Strip," "Maverick," "Hawaiian Eye," "Get Smart," "Mannix," "Centennial," "Airplane II: The Sequel," "Mulholland Drive."
Controversy	Infamous incident on The Dick Cavett Show with Lily Tomlin.
Additional Information	Chad Everett Wikipedia Page

The reaction was immediate. Lily Tomlin audibly gasped, uttering, "You own?" She then declared, "I have to leave," and promptly walked off the set. Her departure was not merely a dramatic exit; it was a statement. It was a visceral reaction against the casual objectification of women, a sentiment that resonated deeply with a growing number of women challenging traditional gender roles.

Everett, seemingly unfazed by Tomlin's exit, continued to dig himself deeper. After Tomlin's departure, Everett added that his wife "is very happy being taken care of by a man." This only served to amplify the controversy, reinforcing the perception that he viewed his wife as property, an object of possession rather than an equal partner. The clip of this exchange quickly became a talking point, fueling debates about sexism in Hollywood and the broader societal attitudes towards women.

The fallout from the Dick Cavett Show appearance lingered long after the cameras stopped rolling. For Lily Tomlin, it solidified her reputation as a vocal advocate for women's rights and a performer unafraid to challenge the status quo. It was a moment that aligned perfectly with her comedic style, which often tackled social and political issues with sharp wit and incisive commentary. Tomlin, born Mary Jean Tomlin in Detroit in September 1939, had already established herself as a comedic force, but this incident cemented her status as a cultural icon.

For Chad Everett, the incident cast a long shadow over his otherwise successful career. While he continued to work steadily in television and film, the label of "sexist" became inextricably linked to his public image. His portrayal of the handsome and compassionate Dr. Joe Gannon in "Medical Center" was somewhat tainted by the perception of his personal views. While Everett enjoyed a career spanning over 40 films and television series, this particular moment remained a significant, and largely negative, point of reference.

In retrospect, the exchange between Everett and Tomlin on the Dick Cavett Show serves as a powerful illustration of the cultural clashes that defined the 1970s. The second-wave feminist movement was gaining momentum, challenging traditional gender roles and demanding equal rights for women. Everett's comments, whether intended as a joke or not, were perceived as a blatant example of the patriarchal attitudes that feminists were fighting against. The incident highlighted the disconnect between generations and the evolving understanding of gender equality.

The program, called "It Takes a Lot of Love," aimed to explore the connection between humans and animals, offering pet owners insights into understanding their "fluffy friends" behavior. However, the focus quickly shifted from interspecies communication to a heated debate about gender dynamics. This unexpected turn underscores the power of live television to capture unscripted moments that resonate far beyond the intended subject matter.

The incident occurred on March 31, 1972, a date that remains etched in the annals of television history. The specific details of the exchangeEverett's initial listing of his wife alongside his animals, Cavett's attempt to clarify, and Everett's subsequent doubling downcontributed to the lasting impact of the moment. It wasn't merely the initial comment, but the refusal to retract it that fueled the controversy.

The online world has kept the memory alive. Women share the moment Lily Tomlin stormed off stage in 1972 after the talk show guest referred to his wife as an "animal he owns," prompting discussions about the enduring relevance of feminist issues. The incident continues to be cited as an example of the casual sexism that women often face, even in seemingly innocuous settings.

Lily Tomlin's reaction was not an isolated incident. She recalled that she had been doing publicity all week, encountering similar instances of sexism and objectification. Everett's comment was simply the tipping point, the final straw that prompted her to take a stand. This context helps to explain the intensity of her reaction and underscores the cumulative effect of everyday sexism.

The comedian Bruce Vilanch has also spoken about the incident, further cementing its place in entertainment lore. Vilanch's perspective, as a writer and observer of popular culture, provides additional insight into the cultural significance of the event.

Chad Everett's death from lung cancer at the age of 75, as reported by the Los Angeles Times, prompted renewed discussion about his career and the legacy of the Dick Cavett Show incident. His passing served as a reminder of the complexities of judging individuals based on a single moment, while also highlighting the enduring importance of addressing sexism and promoting gender equality.

The 1968 appearance of both Tomlin and Everett on the Dick Cavett Show, though not the scene of the infamous walk-off, underscores their parallel paths in the entertainment industry. Both were rising stars at the time, but their careers would be forever linked by the events of March 31, 1972.

Lily Tomlin's filmography, including "The Lily Tomlin Show" (1973), "Lily" (1973), "Lily" (1974), and "Lily Tomlin" (1975), showcases her talent and versatility as a performer. These shows provided a platform for her to explore her comedic style and address social issues in a creative and engaging way.

The reference to "Lester Maddox, who took a hike because he wanted Cavett to apologize for labeling everyone in" hints at the broader political context of the Dick Cavett Show. The show was known for its willingness to tackle controversial topics and challenge conventional wisdom, often attracting guests who held strong and sometimes opposing views.

The mention of specific dates, such as November 10, 2009, at 6:00 AM EST and November 17, 2015, at 5:28 AM EST, likely refers to online discussions or articles about the incident. These timestamps highlight the ongoing interest in the story and its continued relevance in the digital age.

The assertion that "Lily Tomlin lives for moments, and when they happen, she" underscores her commitment to authenticity and her willingness to speak her mind. The Dick Cavett Show incident is a prime example of her seizing a moment to challenge injustice and advocate for change.

The ABC interview, with the relevant section starting at the 6:34 mark, provides further context and analysis of the event. This interview likely includes commentary from Tomlin herself, offering her perspective on the incident and its impact on her career.

The phrase "With Dick Cavett, Lily Tomlin, Chad Everett, W.H." likely refers to the show's credits or promotional materials. This information helps to place the incident within the broader context of the Dick Cavett Show's history and its cast of notable guests.

The statement that "Tomlin became so enraged when Everett referred to his wife as my property that she stormed off the set and refused to return" emphasizes the emotional intensity of the moment. Her anger was not simply a matter of personal offense, but a reflection of her deep-seated commitment to feminist principles.

While Everett may have intended his comment as a joke, neither Tomlin nor the audience found it amusing. This highlights the importance of considering the impact of one's words, even when intended humorously. Jokes that perpetuate harmful stereotypes can have a damaging effect, regardless of the speaker's intentions.

The incident served as a catalyst for further discussion about sexism in the entertainment industry. It prompted viewers to question the power dynamics between men and women and to consider the ways in which women are often objectified and marginalized.

The contrasting reactions to Everett's commentTomlin's outrage versus Everett's seeming indifferenceunderscore the different perspectives on gender equality. While some may have dismissed Everett's remark as a harmless joke, others recognized it as a symptom of a deeper societal problem.

The fact that Everett oddly referred to his wife as "the most beautiful animal I own" adds another layer of complexity to the incident. This particular phrasing suggests a lack of respect for his wife's personhood and reinforces the idea that he viewed her as an object of possession.

The aftermath of the incident revealed differing opinions on the matter. Some defended Everett, arguing that his comment was simply a joke taken out of context. Others supported Tomlin, praising her for standing up against sexism and using her platform to advocate for change.

The long-term impact of the Dick Cavett Show incident is undeniable. It remains a touchstone in discussions about feminism, sexism, and the role of entertainment in shaping cultural attitudes. The moment continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of challenging injustice and promoting equality.

Chad Everett's personal life, including the allegation that he fathered an illegitimate child and refused to take responsibility, adds another layer of complexity to his public image. While this issue is separate from the Dick Cavett Show incident, it further complicates our understanding of his character and his views on women.

The court ruling in Everett's favor, despite a 95% probability of paternity, raises questions about the legal system and its treatment of women and children. This outcome highlights the challenges faced by women seeking to hold men accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, the incident on the Dick Cavett Show involving Chad Everett and Lily Tomlin remains a powerful and enduring symbol of the cultural clashes that defined the 1970s. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of challenging sexism in all its forms. The moment continues to resonate with audiences today, prompting reflection and inspiring action.