Ep 13. Joan Rivers (guest host)
- October 29, 1971
Joan Rivers, the legendary comedian and talk show host, takes over guest-hosting duties on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson for this episode in the tenth season. As one of Carson's closest friends and frequent guests, Rivers brings her signature brand of humor and wit to the hosting chair for a night.
Rivers opens the show with a monologue filled with her usual sharp-tongued commentary on current events and pop culture. With her unique blend of satire and self-deprecation, Rivers keeps the audience laughing throughout the opening segment.
The first guest of the night is actor Fred MacMurray, who is promoting his latest film. Rivers and MacMurray engage in a lively conversation about life in Hollywood, with Rivers teasing the actor about his "goody-two-shoes" image and MacMurray dishing on some of the legendary parties he attended during his long career.
Next up is comedian and fellow talk show host David Letterman, who joins Rivers for a hilarious round of banter and jokes. The two comedian friends trade jabs and stories, with Letterman even admitting to being a fan of Rivers' infamous red carpet critiques.
The musical guest for the night is the popular country group Alabama, who perform a few of their biggest hits for the audience. Rivers welcomes them to the show and even tries her hand at some banjo playing with the band during a commercial break.
After the musical segment, Rivers welcomes her final guest of the night, actress Elizabeth Ashley. The two women chat about Ashley's latest film and her career in Hollywood, with Rivers offering some of her trademark wisecracks along the way.
Throughout the show, Rivers keeps the energy high and the laughs coming. Her infectious personality and quick wit make her a natural fit for the hosting duties, and she proves to be a worthy successor to Carson for the night.
Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a hilarious and entertaining hour of television, featuring one of the most beloved comedians of all time. With Joan Rivers at the helm, the show is filled with laughs, zingers, and unforgettable moments that showcase the best of late-night entertainment.
