Ep 14. Orson Bean

Orson Bean graces The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, making for a lively conversation filled with witty banter and hilarious anecdotes. As a beloved actor, comedian, and game show panelist, Bean has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. In this episode, he shares his experiences working on various projects, including his latest film and TV roles.

The show starts off with a warm welcome from Carson to Bean, who walks onto the stage looking sharp in a black suit. The two engage in an easy-going chat about Bean's preparations for his latest movie role, which involves him playing a pilot. Bean reveals that he has been studying the technicalities of flying, including learning the different types of altitude. This leads to a funny exchange between him and Carson, who tries to come up with his own definition of altitude.

The conversation moves on to how Bean got started in the entertainment industry. He tells Carson about his early days as a magician and how he ended up becoming a nightclub performer before transitioning to acting. Bean shares that he didn't have any formal acting training and that he learned by observing other actors. This leads to a discussion about the craft of acting, with Bean sharing his thoughts on what makes a great actor.

Next, Carson brings up one of Bean's most notable roles, as a panelist on the game show "To Tell the Truth." Bean explains the process of filming the show, from the contestant selection to the actual taping. He shares some funny stories about the different people he's met on the show, including one man who claimed to have a horse that could read.

The conversation takes a more serious turn as Bean talks about his experience being blacklisted during the McCarthy era. He shares how being accused of being a communist affected his career and how he was eventually able to bounce back. The discussion highlights the political climate of the time and the lasting effects it had on Hollywood and the entertainment industry.

As the show comes to a close, Carson and Bean engage in a rapid-fire question and answer segment, with Bean offering his quick-witted responses. The two end on a high note as they swap jokes and share laughs.

Overall, Orson Bean's appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood and comedy. His stories and experiences offer a peek into the inner workings of the entertainment industry and his wit and humor make for a delightful conversation with Carson.