The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 18 Episode 12 David Letterman (guest host), Jay Leno, George Gobel

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 18 episode 12 features three iconic comedians - David Letterman, Jay Leno, and George Gobel - in a night of hilarious banter and skits. David Letterman takes guest hosting duties, bringing his irreverent humor and trademark self-deprecation to the show. He starts off the night with a monologue filled with topical jokes and witty observations, poking fun at everything from politicians to celebrities.

Jay Leno, then a frequent guest on the show and future host of The Tonight Show himself, joins David on stage for a segment called "The Art of Being a Comedian." The two trade stories from their early days in stand-up, discussing the struggles and joys of making audiences laugh. The camaraderie between the two is palpable, and their quick wit and sharp humor keep the audience laughing throughout.

Later in the show, legendary comedian George Gobel joins the fray, adding his own brand of folksy humor to the mix. He regales the audience with stories from his upbringing in Ohio, including one about a run-in with a stubborn mule that had everyone in stitches. The trio also takes part in a parody of the popular game show "Password," with David playing host and Jay and George as the contestants. The game quickly devolves into chaos as the contestants struggle to come up with the right answers, but the resulting hilarity only adds to the entertainment value.

Throughout the episode, there are also several skits and comedy bits that highlight the comedic talents of the three guests. David Letterman takes part in a spoof of "The Honeymooners" alongside Johnny Carson, and George Gobel stars in a mock commercial for a product called "Soap-on-a-Rope." Jay Leno also shows off his skills as a stand-up comedian, delivering a set filled with sharp jokes and hilarious anecdotes.

The chemistry between David Letterman, Jay Leno, and George Gobel is undeniable, and their ability to riff off of one another and keep the audience engaged is a testament to their comedic prowess. The show is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic comedy and appreciates the talents of these iconic performers.