The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 11 Episode 236 Joey Bishop (guest host), Fernando Lamas, Mickey Rooney, Rip Taylor, Michael Roessler, Lou Marett, Mark Spitz

Joey Bishop steps in as guest host for this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He welcomes an impressive lineup of guests, including actor Fernando Lamas, Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney, comedian Rip Taylor and Olympic swimmer Mark Spitz. Also joining the show are Michael Roessler, an expert in animal training, and Lou Marett, a juggler and performer.

Bishop kicks things off with a monologue that showcases his signature dry humor and wry observations on contemporary life. He touches on topics like politics, pop culture, and the vicissitudes of aging. His jokes are met with thunderous applause and laughter from the audience.

Next, Bishop welcomes Fernando Lamas to the show. The suave and dapper actor discusses his latest film project and shares stories from his extensive career. Lamas is known for his roles in both dramatic and comedic films, and he proves to be an engaging and charming guest.

Mickey Rooney takes the stage next, and Bishop is clearly delighted to have him on the show. The legendary actor and entertainer has been in show business for over seven decades, and he shares tales of his experiences working with icons like Judy Garland and Spencer Tracy. He also talks about his passion for music and performs a song on the piano, to the audience's delight.

Rip Taylor, the well-known comedian and confetti-thrower, adds some levity to the show with his irreverent humor. He regales the audience with jokes and anecdotes, and even engages in some playful banter with Bishop. His energy and antics are a hit with the crowd.

Michael Roessler, the animal trainer, introduces a variety of creatures to the stage, including a raccoon, a skunk, and a porcupine. He explains his techniques for training animals for film and television, and demonstrates some of their behaviors. The audience is both fascinated and amused by the animals' antics.

Lou Marett, the juggler and performer, showcases his skills with an impressive routine that incorporates juggling, dancing, and contortion. He has performed in circuses and variety shows all over the world, and his expertise is evident in his dynamic performance.

Lastly, Olympic swimmer Mark Spitz joins Bishop to discuss his historic achievements in the pool. Spitz won a record seven gold medals at the 1972 Olympic Games and remains one of the most celebrated athletes in history. He talks about his training regimen and his experiences competing in Munich. Bishop and Spitz even engage in a friendly arm-wrestling match, much to the amusement of the audience.

Throughout the show, Bishop proves to be a skilled and affable host, adept at steering conversations with his guests and keeping the atmosphere light and lively. The guests themselves are an impressive array of talents, each with their own unique stories and experiences to share. The result is a highly entertaining and engaging episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.