The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 15 Episode 253 John Denver (guest host), Carl Reiner, Valerie Harper, Dr. Carl Sagan

John Denver, the American singer and songwriter, takes over the hosting duties from Johnny Carson in this special episode of The Tonight Show. Denver, known for his hits such as "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and "Rocky Mountain High," begins the episode with a performance of one of his classic songs.

Following the musical introduction, Denver welcomes his first guest, Carl Reiner. Reiner, the legendary comedian and actor, discusses his career and shares some comedic anecdotes with Denver. The two entertainers share a few lighthearted moments, interjecting humor into the conversation.

Next, Denver welcomes Valerie Harper, best known for her role as Rhoda Morgenstern in the television series "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and its spin-off "Rhoda." Harper discusses her experiences working on both shows and the challenges of being a working actress in Hollywood. Denver and Harper share some laughs as they reminisce about their time working together.

Dr. Carl Sagan, an astronomer and astrophysicist, joins Denver on stage to discuss his work in astronomy and space exploration. Sagan shares his knowledge and insights into the universe, and Denver asks thoughtful questions about space travel and the potential for life on other planets.

Denver returns to his musical roots and performs another song, showcasing his skill as a musician. Throughout the episode, Denver exudes a laid-back and friendly demeanor, making his guest feel welcome and at ease. His guests, in turn, engage with him and offer interesting and informative discussions on their respective fields.

The episode highlights Denver's versatility as an entertainer, showcasing his ability to host a talk show, perform music, and engage in interesting conversations. His guests, each accomplished in their own right, offer viewers a glimpse into their lives and careers. The combination of humor, music, and intellectual conversation makes for a well-rounded episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.