Ep 8. Comic Legends Of The '60s - Joan Rivers (12/31/75)

Johnny Carson, the king of late-night television, welcomes legendary comics from the 1960s to his show in this episode titled "Comic Legends Of The '60s - Joan Rivers," aired on December 31, 1975. The guest of honor for the night is the prolific and outspoken comedian Joan Rivers.

Rivers takes her rightful place on Carson's stage, and the audience erupts in applause as she takes her seat next to the host. Her iconic voice is immediately recognizable, and her quick wit is sure to entertain. Carson begins the interview by asking her about her early days in show business, and Rivers regales him with stories about starting out as a struggling comic in New York City's Greenwich Village.

As the conversation progresses, Carson delves deeper into Rivers' experiences as a woman in Hollywood. Rivers candidly discusses the challenges she faced as a female comedian, including sexism, ageism, and pushback from her contemporaries in the industry. Carson listens intently and throws in his own anecdotes about the entertainment industry throughout their discussion.

The two then shift the focus to Rivers' personal life and her comedic style. Rivers opens up about her past marriages, her daughter Melissa, and the relationships that have shaped her life. She also shares some of her favorite jokes and impressions with the audience, showcasing her unique abilities as an entertainer.

As the interview reaches its conclusion, Carson asks Rivers about her future plans. Rivers reveals that she is writing a book and planning to star in a new show, both of which turn out to be major successes in the years to come. Carson and Rivers then share a heartfelt moment before the audience applauds them both.

In addition to Rivers' interview, the episode features other legends of comedy from the 1960s. The show includes appearances by Garry Shandling, David Brenner, and Robert Klein, among others. Each comedian performs their own set, showcasing the different styles that dominated the era.

Throughout the episode, the audience is treated to classic jokes and witty banter, as well as glimpses into the comedians' personal lives. The show is a true celebration of the decade that redefined comedy, and of the performers who helped make it happen.

Overall, "Comic Legends Of The '60s - Joan Rivers" is a must-watch for fans of classic comedy, as well as anyone interested in the cultural shifts that occurred during that decade. The episode provides a rare glimpse into the personal lives and struggles of some of Hollywood's biggest names, and the humor that helped them persevere. With Johnny Carson as the genial host, the episode perfectly captures the essence of late-night TV at its finest.