The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

Watch The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

  • 1962
  • 1 Season

The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a timeless television classic that aired on NBC from 1962 to 1992. This show is a compilation of some of the funniest and most iconic moments from the show’s 30-year run. Johnny Carson, the host of the show, is known for his quick wit, charm, and ability to make anyone laugh.

Each episode of The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson features a collection of clips from the show’s past, showcasing some of the most memorable interviews, sketches, and musical performances. The show features a wide range of guests, including some of the biggest names in entertainment, politics, and sports.

The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering viewers a chance to relive some of the most iconic moments in late-night entertainment. The show is a celebration of Carson’s legacy, showcasing his incredible talent as a comedian, interviewer, and entertainer.

One of the most memorable aspects of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was his opening monologue. Carson’s monologues were often filled with biting humor, poking fun at current events and pop culture trends. This segment of the show was a staple of late-night television and helped establish Carson as one of the most influential comedians of his time.

In addition to his comedic talents, Carson was also renowned for his interviewing skills. He had a natural ability to put his guests at ease, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere that allowed for some truly memorable moments. Some of the most famous interviews on the show include appearances by Muhammad Ali, John Wayne, and Lucille Ball.

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was also famous for its comedic sketches and characters. The show introduced audiences to some of the most beloved comedic characters in history, including Carnac the Magnificent, a mystic who could answer any question before seeing it. Other popular sketches included the Teenage Werewolf, Aunt Blabby, and Art Fern’s Tea-Time Movie.

One of the unique features of The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is its ability to showcase Carson’s versatility as an entertainer. While he may have been best known for his comedic prowess, Carson was also a talented musician and performer. The show features a wide range of musical performances, including appearances by some of the biggest names in music, such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Frank Sinatra.

Overall, The Best of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a timeless classic that has entertained audiences for decades. The show’s ability to make people laugh and its ability to showcase some of the most talented performers in show business make it a true treasure. Today, more than ever, the show reminds us of the importance of humor and how much it can brighten our lives.

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Seasons
Animal Hijinks
8. Animal Hijinks
 
Some of the most unforgettable and hilarious moments on the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson occurred when animal handlers Joan Embery of the San Diego Zoo and Jim Fowler of Wild Kingdom introduced Johnny to the always-unpredictable world of wild and exotic animals. These lovable critters reminded us that the King of Late Night was no match for the animal kingdom.
Stand Up Comedians
7. Stand Up Comedians
 
This hilarious collection features classic stand-up comedy routines from the funniest comics that appeared on the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. This compilation includes the national television debut of many of America's most popular comics. Getting a laugh from a huge television audience is one thing, but standing on the Tonight Show stage and performing for the King of Late Night is a memory that is hard to ever forget. The all-star comedian guest list includes: Jerry Seinfeld, Rodney Dangerfield, George Carlin, Garry Shandling, Roseanne and more!
The Final Show
6. The Final Show
May 22, 1992
This is the most requested Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson episode! Johnny's last show is filled with unforgettable flashbacks of thirty years of show-biz legends, music stars, comedians, sports heroes, heads of state and unusual guests with special talents. A tribute to Ed, Doc and Johnny, this episode is a must-have for any fan of the Tonight Show and TV history.
Next to Last Episode
5. Next to Last Episode
May 21, 1992
In this next-to-last episode of the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, in anticipation of Johnny's final show the following evening, the fortunate few with tickets were treated to incredible performances by Robin Williams and Bette Midler that brought down the house.
Johnny Goes Home
4. Johnny Goes Home
 
This NBC primetime TV special from 1982 follows Johnny Carson on a sentimental journey from Hollywood to the heartland as he rediscovers his Nebraska roots in his hometown of Norfolk.
The Best of the 80s & 90s
3. The Best of the 80s & 90s
 
Throughout the 80s and 90s, the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson delivered unforgettable moments with everyone from zany Robin Williams to soon-to-be-president Bill Clinton, debut appearances from Roseanne and Drew Carey, visits from Carnac and Art Fern, original comic insights from George Carlin, Albert Brooks and Charles Grodin, side-splitting civilian guests and memorable visits from the wild kingdom.
The Best of the 70s & 80s
2. The Best of the 70s & 80s
 
Throughout the 70s and 80s, the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson delivered classic Carson monologues, wacky visits from Carnac and Art Fern, ground-breaking comedians Eddie Murphy, Garry Shandling, Albert Brooks and Bill Maher, Hollywood legend Jimmy Stewart, child stars Drew Barrymore and Joey Lawrence, fan-favorite Charles Grodin, wildlife with animal handlers Jim Fowler and Joan Embery, Frank Hill's jewelry, Elizabeth "The Nut Lady" Tashjian, Johnny's impressions and much more!
The Best of the 60s & 70s
1. The Best of the 60s & 70s
 
From those early days of black and white with Ed Ames' memorable Tomahawk toss, to Tiny Tim's Technicolor wedding, to Letterman and Leno's stand-up debuts, the first decade of the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was filled with once-in-a-lifetime funny TV moments. This episode includes: Pearl Bailey, Buddy Hackett, Steve Martin, George Carlin, Flip Wilson, Don Rickles, Dolly Parton and more!
Description
  • Premiere Date
    October 1, 1962