The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 16 Episode 18 Joe Namath
- November 8, 1977
In this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, former New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath joins Carson as the special guest. Namath, also known as "Broadway Joe," is known for his career in football, as well as his iconic style and personality off the field.
The episode opens with Carson introducing Namath to the audience, and the two engage in some lighthearted banter about Namath's infamous fur coat and his reputation as a ladies' man. Namath is charming and charismatic, earning laughs from the audience with his quick wit and playful demeanor.
Throughout the episode, Carson and Namath discuss a range of topics related to Namath's life and career. They delve into his upbringing in Pennsylvania, his decision to play football at the University of Alabama, and his transition to the NFL.
Namath also shares some memorable moments from his time with the Jets, including his famous guarantee before Super Bowl III and his experiences playing under coach Weeb Ewbank. He talks about some of the biggest challenges he faced as a quarterback, including injuries and backlash from the media.
Carson and Namath also share some laughs as they watch clips of Namath's appearances on popular TV shows like The Simpsons and The Brady Bunch. Namath reflects on his time as a television personality, admitting that he sometimes struggled with the pressure of being in the public eye.
As the episode comes to a close, Carson and Namath play a game of "Horse" in the studio's basketball hoop. The two display some impressive skills on the court, with Namath showing off his signature flair and Carson proving himself to be a surprisingly skilled shooter.
Overall, the episode is a lively and entertaining conversation between two icons of American popular culture. Namath's wit and charm are on full display, making for an engaging and enjoyable watch.