The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 12 Episode 218 Rich Little (guest host), Ted Knight

Rich Little hosts this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson as Carson is absent due to a personal matter. Little, a famed impressionist, showcases his talents throughout the episode, impersonating a variety of celebrities such as Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Stewart, and Henry Fonda.

Actor Ted Knight also appears as a guest on the show. Known for his roles on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Too Close for Comfort, Knight discusses his career and latest projects with Little. The two have a playful banter throughout the interview, with Knight taking the opportunity to tease Little about his impressions.

In addition to Little's impersonations, the episode features several comedic skits, including a parody of the then-popular show Fantasy Island. Little plays the role of Ricardo Montalban's character, Mr. Roarke, while Knight takes on the role of Tattoo. The skit is filled with silly antics and over-the-top humor, providing plenty of laughs for the audience.

Musical guests for the episode include The Charlie Daniels Band and Barbara Jordan. The Charlie Daniels Band performs their hit song "The Devil Went Down to Georgia," while Barbara Jordan sings a soulful rendition of "Summertime."

Throughout the episode, Little and Knight showcase their comedic chemistry, providing an entertaining and light-hearted atmosphere for the show. Little's impressions of classic Hollywood stars and Knight's quick wit keep the audience engaged and laughing. The show concludes with a touching tribute to Carson, thanking him for his years of service as host of The Tonight Show.

Overall, the episode is a fun and enjoyable watch, filled with great comedy and music. Rich Little proves to be a capable guest host, bringing his unique brand of humor to the show, while Ted Knight's charm and charisma make him a delightful guest. Fans of classic talk shows and comedy will certainly find this episode to be a worthwhile viewing experience.