The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 12 Episode 161 Joan Rivers, George Peppard

On June 24, 1974, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson aired its 161st episode of season 12, featuring guests Joan Rivers and George Peppard. The episode was a classic example of the format that made the show a staple of American late-night television for decades.

The episode began with Johnny Carson, the show's legendary host, delivering his opening monologue. Carson was famous for his quick wit and observational humor, and this particular monologue was no exception. He joked about a range of topical subjects, including the recent U.S. midterm elections and the ongoing Watergate scandal.

After the monologue, Carson welcomed his first guest of the evening, Joan Rivers. Rivers was a comedian and television personality who had become a regular on The Tonight Show in the early 1970s. Her appearance on this episode was notable for several reasons, not least because she was one of the few female comics of her generation to achieve widespread fame and success.

During her interview with Carson, Rivers discussed her recent move to California from New York, where she had been based for many years. She also talked about her work as a stand-up comedian, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a predominantly male industry. Rivers was known for her sharp-tongued humor, and she didn't disappoint in this episode, delivering a series of one-liners that had Carson and the audience in stitches.

Following Rivers' interview, Carson welcomed his second guest of the evening, George Peppard. Peppard was an actor who had risen to fame in the early 1960s, thanks to his roles in films like Breakfast at Tiffany's and The Carpetbaggers. He was on the show to promote his latest movie, Newman's Law.

During his interview with Carson, Peppard talked about his experiences working in Hollywood, and his thoughts on the state of the movie industry at the time. He also reminisced about his early career, including his time studying acting in New York City. Like Rivers, Peppard was a charismatic and entertaining guest, and his interview provided a fascinating glimpse into the world of Hollywood during the 1970s.

The episode concluded with Carson and his guests engaging in some lighthearted banter, as they shared stories and jokes with each other. It was a fitting end to an episode that had showcased the best of The Tonight Show's format: a mix of topical humor, fascinating interviews, and unexpected moments of comedy gold.

Overall, season 12 episode 161 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a classic example of why the show was so beloved by American audiences for so many years. With its mix of celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances, it was the perfect way for viewers to unwind at the end of a long day. And with guests as entertaining as Joan Rivers and George Peppard, it's no wonder that the show remained a firm favorite for so many years.