The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 17 Episode 175 Don Rickles (guest host)
- July 9, 1979
On the 175th episode of season 17 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, the legendary comedian Don Rickles takes over as guest host. Known for his sharp wit and biting humor, Rickles brings his own brand of comedy to the iconic talk show.
The episode begins with Rickles cracking jokes about various topics, including politics, sports, and Hollywood celebrities. He pokes fun at the day's news headlines and delivers one-liners that leave the audience in stitches.
As the show progresses, Rickles welcomes a variety of guests to the stage. One of the first is actress Candice Bergen, who is promoting a new film. Rickles playfully teases Bergen about her beauty and charm, and the two banter back and forth for several minutes.
Later in the show, Rickles welcomes actor Telly Savalas, who is best known for his role in the TV series Kojak. Rickles and Savalas have worked together in the past, and their camaraderie is evident as they trade barbs and tell funny stories.
Another guest on the show is the popular singer and songwriter Neil Sedaka. Rickles jokes that Sedaka is too nice to be a true rock star, but the singer takes it all in stride and performs a few of his hit songs for the audience.
In addition to the interviews, the episode features several comedy sketches and musical performances. Rickles is joined by a talented cast of performers, including some of his fellow comedians, as they act out hilarious scenarios and sing catchy songs.
Throughout the episode, Rickles maintains his trademark style, taking shots at anyone and everyone with equal zest. He even turns the tables on Carson himself, who appears as a guest near the end of the show. The two exchange playful insults and reminisce about their long friendship.
As the show comes to a close, Rickles delivers a heartfelt tribute to Carson, thanking him for his years of service to the entertainment industry. The audience gives both men a standing ovation, and Rickles closes out the episode with one final joke that leaves everyone laughing.
Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a classic example of the kind of entertainment that made the show such a beloved staple of American television. With Don Rickles at the helm, viewers are treated to an hour of nonstop laughs and good-natured fun.