Ep 5. Hollywood Icons Of The '80s - Sally Field (2/20/79)

The Johnny Carson Show season 15 episode 5 showcases one of the Hollywood icons of the 1980s, Sally Field. The episode, originally aired on February 20, 1979, features an engaging conversation between the actress and Johnny Carson, which provides a fascinating peek into the world of show business during that era.

The show begins with the customary banter between Johnny and Ed, the co-host. They warm up the audience with some hilarious jokes about politics, movies, and current affairs. As always, Johnny keeps the tone light and playful, making sure everyone is in a good mood.

Soon, the guest of the day, Sally Field, enters the stage to a resounding applause. Sally is at the peak of her career at this point, having won two Academy Awards and several other accolades for her remarkable performances in movies such as 'Norma Rae' and 'Smokey and the Bandit.' Sally looks radiant in a stylish jumpsuit, and her beaming smile lights up the stage.

Johnny and Sally start chatting about her experience working with Burt Reynolds, her co-star in 'Smokey and the Bandit.' Sally reveals that she had a fun time filming the movie, and Burt was a great actor to work with. Johnny fondly remembers his own interactions with Burt and shares a few anecdotes about their time together.

The conversation then shifts towards Sally's career, and she talks about her struggles to find meaningful roles that showcased her acting abilities. She shares how she battled against the Hollywood stereotypes that typecast her as the 'cute girl next door' and as someone who could not handle dramatic roles. Sally mentions how she fought tooth and nail to play the lead role in 'Norma Rae', which eventually earned her an Oscar.

The show then takes a lighter note, as Johnny and Sally engage in a rapid-fire round of questions and answers, in which Sally reveals some amusing facts about her personal life. She talks about her love for musicals, her kids, and her preference for simple home-cooked meals over fancy restaurants.

The episode ends with Sally thanking Johnny and Ed for a fun time and waving goodbye to the audience. The show is a classic example of Johnny's hosting skills, which made him one of the most beloved hosts of all time. The way he connects with the guests, puts them at ease and brings out the best in them is a lesson in itself.

In conclusion, The Johnny Carson Show season 15 episode 5 is a must-watch for anyone who loves Hollywood history, comedy, and engaging conversations. Sally Field is a timeless icon, and her appearance on the show is a testament to her immense talent and charm. The episode captures the essence of the 1980s, a time when Hollywood was at its peak and the world was changing rapidly. Overall, a delightful 60 minutes of television that will leave you smiling and wanting more.