Ep 14. Hollywood Icons Of The '50s - Lauren Bacall (6/23/83)

In season 12 episode 14 of The Johnny Carson Show, the iconic late-night talk show host presents a tribute to Hollywood icons of the 1950s, with a focus on one of the era's biggest stars, Lauren Bacall. The episode, which originally aired on June 23, 1983, takes a nostalgic look back at the Golden Age of Hollywood when glamour, celebrity, and stardom reigned supreme. It features rare footage, photos, and interviews of Bacall and other famous actors and actresses of the period, as well as Carson's own humorous and insightful commentary.

The Johnny Carson Show was famous for its wide-ranging celebrity interviews, sketch comedy, musical performances, and monologues, and this episode was no exception. Carson's wit and charm are on full display as he introduces the show, cracking jokes and poking fun at the stars of yesteryear. He sets the stage for the main event by describing the era of the 1950s as a time of great cultural upheaval and change, and highlighting how the movies reflected this shift.

The episode then turns its attention to Bacall, who was one of the most popular actresses of the time. Carson notes that Bacall's sultry voice, smoldering eyes, and magnetic presence made her a household name. He recalls her breakout role in To Have and Have Not opposite Humphrey Bogart and her subsequent films, including The Big Sleep, Key Largo, and How to Marry a Millionaire.

The episode features clips from some of Bacall's most memorable scenes, such as her infamous "whistle" scene in To Have and Have Not, and her exchanges with Bogart. It also includes interviews with Bacall herself, who shares her insights and experiences as a young actress in Hollywood. She talks about the challenges she faced in the industry and how she navigated the pressures of fame and publicity.

Carson also introduces clips and interviews with other Hollywood legends of the 1950s, including Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Marlon Brando, and Audrey Hepburn. He shares fascinating tidbits about their personal lives, careers, and unique styles. The episode highlights Monroe's unforgettable performance in Some Like It Hot, Dean's brooding intensity in Rebel Without a Cause, Brando's Oscar-winning role in On the Waterfront, and Hepburn's iconic looks and elegance.

Throughout the episode, Carson's irreverent humor and sharp wit keep the tone light and entertaining. He pokes fun at the exaggerated acting and melodrama of old Hollywood, as well as the fashion trends and cultural norms of the time. He also shares his personal anecdotes and observations about the stars, revealing his own insights into their personalities and quirks.

Overall, The Johnny Carson Show season 12 episode 14 offers a rare glimpse into the glory days of Hollywood and the personalities that defined it. It celebrates the enduring legacy of the Hollywood icons of the 1950s and their impact on popular culture. With its mix of humor, nostalgia, and insight, this episode is a must-see for any fan of classic Hollywood.