Ep 6. The Best Of Richard Pryor (5/20/81)

The Johnny Carson Show was a popular late-night talk show that aired for over three decades. In its eleventh season, episode six, the show featured the best of Richard Pryor, a legendary stand-up comedian known for his groundbreaking, often controversial material.

As Carson introduced the episode, he noted Pryor's ability to use humor to tackle serious issues like race, politics, and social injustice. He also mentioned Pryor's appearances on the show over the years, always bringing down the house with his irreverent and razor-sharp wit.

The episode opened with a segment from one of Pryor's earliest appearances on the show, dating back to the late 1960s. In it, Pryor performed a bit about his experiences growing up in a brothel in Peoria, Illinois. Despite the potentially sensitive subject matter, Pryor found a way to make it uproariously funny, playing with the audience's expectations and highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

From there, the episode moved forward in time, showcasing clips from various points in Pryor's illustrious career. Viewers saw snippets of his appearances on other popular talk shows, including The Dick Cavett Show and The Merv Griffin Show, as well as some of his classic stand-up routines.

One standout moment was Pryor's infamous "Mudbone" character, a fictionalized version of a wily old man from the South. In the bit, Pryor donned a straw hat and a twangy accent, regaling the audience with tall tales of his childhood and dispensing folksy wisdom. The character became a fan favorite, and Pryor continued to perform as Mudbone for years, even releasing a comedy album devoted entirely to the character.

Another memorable segment featured Pryor riffing on his experiences with white people, a topic he explored often in his comedy. He expertly navigated the minefield of racial humor, poking fun at both black and white stereotypes and highlighting the absurdity of prejudice. Despite the potentially inflammatory material, Pryor's charisma and charm won over even the most skeptical viewers.

In later clips, Pryor delved into more serious topics, including his struggles with drug addiction and his political activism. He spoke eloquently about the need for social justice and the importance of speaking truth to power, a message that resonated especially strongly with viewers in the wake of the civil rights movement and the Nixon administration.

Throughout the episode, Carson interjected with his trademark wit, joking with Pryor and poking fun at his own staid image. The two had a warm and natural chemistry, evident in their easy banter and mutual respect.

Overall, The Best of Richard Pryor was a testament to the comedian's lasting impact on American culture. His irreverent humor and fearless honesty paved the way for generations of comedians to come, and his contributions to the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. This episode of The Johnny Carson Show was a fitting tribute to a true legend.