Having been in the business for more than 60 years, White is no stranger to comedy. The actress has made countless appearances on talk shows, starred in movies, such as “The Proposal,” and even has written a book and released her own clothing line.

While hosting “Betty White’s Off Their Rockers,” she also plays a caretaker named Elka Ostrovsky in TV Land’s sitcom, “Hot in Cleveland.” The State News spoke with White in a conference call Tuesday about her experience with both shows.

*Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being in the entertainment industry? *
A: You have to be serious sometimes. You’re in the funny business, but take the business very seriously.

Q: What are some of your favorite shows on TV right now?
A: It sounds so sad to say, but I just watch the news to play catch-up and don’t have time. This is the busiest I’ve ever been in my life, and I don’t really get the chance to get into shows.

Q: Why do you think “Hot in Cleveland” has become so successful?
A: You hear the horror stories about actors who don’t speak unless it’s in the script. How do you do comedy if you don’t like each other? Between us, we get something back from each other.

Q: How does it feel to have multiple successful shows?
A: It’s the best thing in the world. I never want it to go away. Everyone says, “Are you going to retire?” It’s probably wishful thinking. But you can’t get rid of me. I’m blessed to be doing something I love so much.

Q: What has it been like working on set for “Hot in Cleveland”?
A: We learned professionalism early on. Everyone on both sides are real pros. They come prepared, they don’t waste time, and it gives you a lot of license to have fun because you know they have your back.

Q: Do you ever feel jittery when filming the show?
A: I’ve been in the business for 64 years, and I get stage fright before every show, just as I did in the beginning. It’s the butterflies.