The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 16 Episode 222 Bob Newhart (guest host), Don Rickles, Dr. Joyce Brothers
- August 21, 1978
On this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, Bob Newhart is the guest host, filling in for Johnny who is on vacation. Bob kicks off the show with his signature dry humor and awkward pauses, joking about the heat and his lack of preparation for hosting.
The first guest to join Bob on the couch is comedian Don Rickles. Known for his sharp wit and ability to insult with love, Rickles and Bob engage in playful banter and hilarious one-liners. They reminisce about their early days in comedy and share stories of their mutual friend, Frank Sinatra.
Next up is Dr. Joyce Brothers, a psychologist and self-help author who was a frequent guest on The Tonight Show during Johnny Carson's tenure. Bob engages Dr. Brothers in a conversation about the psychology of humor and what makes people laugh. They also discuss her latest book, which focuses on achieving happiness through positive thinking.
As the show continues, Bob introduces a sketch featuring himself and Don Rickles as opposing political candidates in a debate. Their comedic timing and snappy comebacks will have viewers in stitches.
Another standout moment comes when Bob introduces a segment called "Pets in the News." In this lighthearted piece, viewers get to see funny and heartwarming stories about animals making headlines, including a parrot who can recite Shakespeare and a cat who saved its owner from a fire.
As the show draws to a close, Bob thanks his guests and Johnny for allowing him to be guest host. He encourages viewers to tune in tomorrow for Johnny's return and signs off with his classic catchphrase, "Goodnight, everybody!"
This episode of The Tonight Show is a perfect example of Bob Newhart's unique brand of comedy and his ability to entertain audiences with his quick wit and deadpan delivery. With an all-star lineup of guests, including Don Rickles and Dr. Joyce Brothers, viewers are in for a treat with plenty of laughs and unforgettable moments.