Ep 9. The Best Of Richard Pryor (10/9/86)

The Johnny Carson Show season 11 episode 9, titled "The Best of Richard Pryor (10/9/86)" features one of the most celebrated and controversial comedians of the 20th century, Richard Pryor. Johnny Carson, the legendary host of The Tonight Show, showcases the best of Pryor's comedic genius in this episode, which originally aired on October 9th, 1986.

The episode begins with a monologue by Johnny Carson, who introduces the theme of the show and previews some of the highlights ahead. He then invites Richard Pryor to the stage, where the audience greets him with thunderous applause. Pryor takes a seat next to Carson and begins to chat with the host about his life and career. As the conversation progresses, Pryor shares some of his personal struggles, including his battle with addiction and his efforts to overcome it. He also talks about his creative process, and how he draws inspiration from his own experiences and observations.

The show then shifts to a series of clips featuring Pryor's stand-up performances. The first clip is from a famous routine in which Pryor imitates a drunkard trying to walk down the street. With hilarious precision, he mimics the sway, stumble, and slurring speech of someone who has had a few too many. The audience roars with laughter as Pryor takes the bit to its extreme, falling off the stage and pretending to crawl back up.

The next clip features Pryor's classic routine about "The N-word." In it, he tells the story of how he first heard the word as a child, and how it became a part of his vocabulary. He then explores the various ways in which the word is used in society and how it reflects the racial tensions of the time. Despite the controversial nature of the routine, Pryor's skillful delivery and nuanced insights into the complexities of race and language make it both hilarious and thought-provoking.

The show continues with more clips from Pryor's stand-up specials, including routines about his childhood, his relationships, and his observations about society. One memorable clip shows Pryor imitating a rural preacher, complete with exaggerated gestures and an over-the-top Southern drawl. Another features Pryor riffing on various sexual taboos and innuendos, with the audience hanging on his every word.

As the show draws to a close, Pryor thanks Carson for the opportunity to share his work with such a large audience. He also expresses his appreciation for the comedians who came before him and paved the way for his success. The episode ends with a final clip of Pryor performing a skit about a family gathering, in which he plays all of the characters, each with their own distinct personality and voice. As the audience applauds, Pryor takes a bow, grateful for the chance to share his gift of laughter with the world.

Overall, The Johnny Carson Show season 11 episode 9, "The Best of Richard Pryor (10/9/86)" is a nostalgic and entertaining tribute to one of the most influential comedians of all time. Through a combination of interviews and stand-up clips, the show captures the essence of Pryor's comedic genius and his impact on popular culture. Whether you're a fan of Richard Pryor or simply appreciate great comedy, this episode is not to be missed.