Ep 4. The Best Of Carnac (1/6/82)

The Johnny Carson Show season 2 episode 4, titled "The Best of Carnac (1/6/82)," is a must-watch for fans of classic late-night television. This episode features a compilation of some of the best moments from one of the show's most beloved recurring segments, "Carnac the Magnificent."

For those unfamiliar with the character, Carnac was a comedic fortune teller who would don a large turban and make predictions based on the contents of sealed envelopes. Carson would read out a humorous answer to a question, and Carnac would reveal the question that the answer corresponded to. The segment was known for its clever wordplay, and audiences eagerly awaited Carnac's next prediction.

This episode features six classic Carnac segments from throughout the years, showcasing the wit and playful banter between Carson and his frequent collaborator, comedy writer and performer Steve Allen, who originated the Carnac character.

The first segment, originally airing on December 22, 1970, features Carnac predicting the answers to questions like "Sis-boom-bah" and "Buddy Holly's glasses." The second segment comes from January 21, 1974, and sees Carnac predicting the questions to answers like "Mincemeat" and "Pepperidge Farm remembers."

Next, from October 14, 1977, audiences can enjoy Carnac's predictions for questions like "Eddie And The Cruisers" and "Disco Inferno." The fourth segment is from December 23, 1977, and features Carnac's predictions for questions like "Oh Susanna" and "You Can't Handle The Truth."

The fifth segment, which originally aired on October 31, 1979, features Carnac predicting the questions to answers like "Pete Rose" and "Harry Carey." And finally, the sixth and last segment, which comes from January 6, 1982, features Carnac's predictions for questions like "Stirrup pants" and "Dolly Parton's upper lip."

Throughout the episode, audiences can enjoy the hilarious antics of both Carson and Allen, as they work their way through the absurd questions and answers of the Carnac sketch. The chemistry between the two comedians is palpable, and it's clear why the sketch became such a beloved staple of the show.

Viewers can also appreciate the iconic visual of Carnac in his oversized turban, with his dramatic hand gestures and mystical demeanor. The character's exaggerated portrayal of a stereotypical fortune teller is a perfect vehicle for Carson and Allen's sharp wordplay and comedic timing.

Overall, "The Best of Carnac" is a delightful trip down memory lane for fans of classic late-night television. The compilation of segments featuring the iconic fortune teller is a testament to the enduring appeal of the sketch, and a reminder of why Johnny Carson is considered one of the all-time greats of comedy and late-night television.