Ep 12. Hollywood Icons Of The '60s - Clint Eastwood (5/15/92)

Johnny Carson takes the audience on a trip down memory lane in an episode dedicated to one of Hollywood's most iconic actors of the '60s, Clint Eastwood. The show focuses on Eastwood's career as an actor, filmmaker, and composer. The episode features fascinating clips from his most memorable movies and interviews with the man himself.

The episode begins with a clip from "Rawhide," a popular Western TV series from the '60s that Eastwood starred in. It's clear he was destined for greatness from an early age, as he had a screen presence and charisma that was hard to ignore. Carson takes us through his early days as a struggling actor in Hollywood, to his breakout role in the Italian classic "A Fistful of Dollars."

The episode covers Eastwood's rise to fame as the "Man With No Name" in his trilogy of Western films, as well as his iconic portrayal of Dirty Harry in the movie of the same name. Eastwood's performances in these films solidified him as an action movie star, and his distinct voice and rugged good looks only added to his appeal. Carson notes that Eastwood's success was not just limited to his performances in front of the camera - Eastwood also directed and composed music for many of his movies.

Carson also delves into Eastwood's personal life. Eastwood famously married actress Maggie Johnson in 1953, and the couple had two children together. However, their marriage was rocked by scandal when it was revealed that Eastwood had an affair with actress Sondra Locke, who he famously worked with in several films. The couple's bitter breakup made headlines, and Carson addresses the controversy in a candid interview with Eastwood.

In addition to his work in movies, Eastwood also had a successful career in politics. He served as Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea in California in the late '80s, and even considered a run for Governor of California during the recall of Gray Davis in 2003. Carson and Eastwood discuss his foray into politics, as well as his philanthropic work with charities like the National Mentoring Partnership.

The episode ends with a moving tribute to Eastwood's longevity and continued success in Hollywood. Eastwood is undoubtedly one of the greats, and his work has inspired generations of filmmakers and actors. Carson concludes the show by thanking Eastwood for his contributions to the industry and to American culture as a whole.

Overall, this episode of "The Johnny Carson Show" is an informative and entertaining look at the life and career of an American icon. Eastwood's impact on Hollywood is undeniable, and this episode celebrates his contributions with the respect and admiration they deserve.