The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 18 Episode 124 George Carlin (guest host)
- April 17, 1980
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 18 episode 124 features comedian George Carlin as the guest host. This episode marks a departure from the show's traditional format, as Carson was away on vacation and challenged Carlin to take over the reins for the week.
Carlin rises to the occasion with his signature irreverence and wit, delivering a monologue that touches on taboo topics like drug use, sex education, and censorship. He also interviews a range of guests, including Academy Award-winning actress Faye Dunaway, renowned art critic John Canaday, and British actor and comedian John Cleese.
One memorable moment of the episode features Carlin interviewing Canaday, who is known for his conservative views on art. Carlin challenges Canaday's definition of what constitutes "good" art and argues that art should not be beholden to any particular standard or tradition. Canaday, for his part, defends the idea that art must communicate a message and elicit a response from the viewer.
In another segment, Carlin speaks with Cleese about his latest project, a comedy film called "A Fish Called Wanda." The two talk about the challenges of writing and performing comedy, and Cleese shares some of his insights on what makes people laugh.
Throughout the episode, Carlin keeps the audience laughing with his sharp humor and quick wit. He proves himself to be a capable and entertaining host, despite the shoes he has to fill in Carson's absence.
Overall, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 18 episode 124 featuring George Carlin as guest host is a must-see for fans of comedy and late-night talk shows. With a lineup of interesting guests and Carlin's signature style, this episode is sure to leave viewers laughing and entertained.