Betty White and Jane Leeves, the stars of TV Land’s original comedy sitcom “Hot in Cleveland,” are old stars in the comedy biz. They discuss the show, their relationship and what’s important to comedy.

How do you stay hip and relevant for a modern audience?

Betty White:

I think it’s the stuff that we often don’t say (on the show) that the audience picks up on. I think generation after generation can enjoy that.

What is the greatest lesson that you have both learned while being in the business?

Jane Leeves:

I have to say I have learned a great deal just by being around Betty, just in terms of being professional. Knowing your stuff. Showing up and knowing what you are doing.

Betty:

You’re in the funny business but you also have to be professional.

“Hot in Cleveland” is TV Land’s first original series and now they are on season 4.

How do you feel about being TV Land’s pioneers on original comedy?

Jane:

I think it’s great. “Hot in Cleveland” has done for TV Land what “Mad Men” did for AMC. It branded the network. It feels great to keep this genre alive that both Betty and me are experienced in.

What is your favorite memory on set?

Jane:

There is one in the making right now. We are very fortunate to have the beautiful wonderful, talented, extraordinary ladies of the Mary Tyler Moore Show. Valerie Harper, Cloris Leachman, Mary Tyler Moore, Georgia Engel and Betty all in one room. We are all just standing back in awe. I don’t think any of us will forget this week.

Betty:

How do you know that we weren’t standing back and aweing at you?

What is your favorite show on any channel that you love watching, that you get material from, that just cracks you up?

Betty:

I sound like such a staller and I am ashamed to say it, I watch the news and I don’t turn my set on because I am trying to play catch up. I’m 91 and It’s the busiest I’ve ever been in my life. I don’t really get a chance to get into anything.

Jane:

I am currently just crazy about “Downton Abbey.”

“Hot in Cleveland” has been TV Land’s highest rated show and now the show has picked up for another season. What’s it like to perform live?

Jane:

I am just so excited about doing a live show. I love doing live shows, I love theatre and I am just going to treat it like a live theatrical performance. I think the success of the show is due to the chemistry between the four of us. Valerie, Wendy, Betty and I, we all just adore each other.

Betty:

Absolutely. You hear these horror stories about cast members that don’t speak until the script. How do you do comedy if you don’t like each other? The live show is so exciting.