The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 1 Episode 143 David Merrick, Glynis Johns, Phil Foster

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson: Season 1, Episode 143

In this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, airing on September 8, 1962, Johnny welcomes three talented guests to the show: David Merrick, Glynis Johns, and Phil Foster.

David Merrick is a legendary Broadway producer with over 80 productions under his belt. Johnny chats with him about his latest production, a musical adaptation of the hit film "110 in the Shade," which was written by the same team responsible for "The Fantasticks." The show stars Inga Swenson and Will Geer, and Merrick talks about the challenges of bringing a musical to the stage. He also discusses his upcoming production of "Oliver!" which is based on the classic Charles Dickens novel "Oliver Twist."

Glynis Johns is a British actress who has appeared in such films as "Mary Poppins," "The Court Jester," and "The Ref." She joins Johnny to talk about her current project, the Broadway play "The Thursday Kidnapping." She plays the wife of a millionaire who is kidnapped, and the play chronicles her efforts to get him back. On the show, she discusses the challenges of working in live theater and the differences between performing on stage and on screen.

Phil Foster is a comedian and actor who rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s. He was a regular on "The Phil Silvers Show" and later appeared on "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and "The Love Boat." On the show, he performs a few of his classic stand-up routines, including his famous "Graduate Skit," in which he spoofs the film "The Graduate." He also talks about his experiences in Hollywood and working with some of the biggest names in entertainment.

Throughout the episode, Johnny also interacts with his audience and takes a few lighthearted jabs at the news and current events of the day. It's a classic episode of The Tonight Show, showcasing the wit and charm that made Johnny Carson a beloved television personality for over three decades.

Overall, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson: Season 1, Episode 143 is a must-see for fans of classic television and entertainment. It's a time capsule of a bygone era, featuring some of the biggest names in show business from the early 1960s. With its mix of comedy, music, and celebrity interviews, it's the perfect way to spend an hour and take a trip down memory lane.