The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 18 Episode 143 Bill Cosby, Howard Hesseman
- May 15, 1980
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 18 episode 143 welcomes esteemed guests Bill Cosby and Howard Hesseman to the show. Cosby, known for his stand-up comedy, acting, and writing, joins Carson for a lively discussion about his career, as well as his thoughts on the current state of comedy and entertainment. The two share stories about their shared experiences in the industry and reflect on the evolution of humor over time.
Hesseman, best known for his role as Johnny Fever on the hit television show WKRP in Cincinnati, also joins Carson for an interview. The actor, whose career spans over three decades, discusses his journey into acting and shares anecdotes from his time working on various television and film projects. He and Carson explore the challenges and rewards of being a character actor and touch on the importance of finding meaning and fulfillment in one's work.
In addition to their interviews, Cosby and Hesseman engage in some on-air hijinks with Carson, participating in a number of classic skits and games. The three engage in a hilarious game of charades, with Cosby and Hesseman attempting to convey obscure phrases and titles to Carson through a series of silly gestures and movements. They also engage in a game of "how well do you know your friend," in which the three take turns quizzing each other on personal facts and trivia.
The show also features several musical performances, with guest musician Herbie Hancock joining Carson and the house band for an energetic set. Hancock, a multi-talented musician and composer, showcases his skills on the piano and shares insights into his creative process and his collaborations with other artists.
Throughout the episode, Carson keeps the audience entertained with his trademark wit and humor, delivering monologues and engaging in banter with Cosby, Hesseman, and other guests. He also takes questions from the audience, providing his signature brand of comedic commentary and observations on current events and pop culture.
Overall, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 18 episode 143 is a lively and entertaining installment of the long-running talk show, featuring an eclectic mix of guests, skits, and musical performances. Cosby and Hesseman bring their own unique perspectives and personalities to the show, making for a fun and engaging viewing experience for audiences of all ages.