The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 13 Episode 7 Don Rickles (guest host), Dan Rowan, Dick Martin

Don Rickles, the legendary comedian, takes over the guest host duties for tonight’s episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, season 13 episode 7. Alongside him are two other comedy greats, Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, best known for their roles in the popular sketch comedy series Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.

Rickles, known for his abrasive, insult-driven style of comedy, provides a hilarious and unforgettable opening monologue that sets the tone for the entire show. He takes potshots at everyone from politicians to fellow celebrities, leaving the audience in stitches. He then invites Rowan and Martin on stage, and the trio proceeds to engage in a rapid-fire back and forth, with each comedian riffing off the others' jokes with lightning speed.

The show’s first guest is actor Harry Hamlin, best known for his role as Michael Kuzak on the popular legal drama L.A. Law. Hamlin talks about his experiences on the show and his upcoming projects, all while enduring Rickles’ good-natured ribbing.

Next up is comedian Robert Wuhl, who is currently starring in the HBO series Arli$$. Wuhl talks about his transition from stand-up comedy to acting, and how he incorporates his comedic sensibilities into his dramatic roles. He also talks about his experiences working with legendary comedian and actor Rodney Dangerfield, who was famously generous to young comedians trying to break into the industry.

Musical guest for the evening is the legendary country singer Merle Haggard, who performs his hit song “Big City”. Haggard’s soulful performance is a perfect contrast to the evening’s earlier comedy hijinks, allowing the audience to relax and simply enjoy the music.

Other notable moments from this episode include a comedic sketch involving Rickles as a waiter in a fancy restaurant, providing his customers with ludicrously over-the-top dishes. The sketch is classic Rickles, with the comedian hurling insults at his customers while somehow managing to keep them laughing.

Overall, season 13 episode 7 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a perfect encapsulation of the kind of comedy that made the show an institution. The combination of Rickles’ legendary wit, Rowan and Martin’s trademark irreverence, and the laid-back charm of Johnny Carson himself make for a thoroughly entertaining evening of laughs. And with top-notch guests like Harry Hamlin, Robert Wuhl, and Merle Haggard, it’s easy to see why The Tonight Show was such a beloved staple of American television for so many years.