The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 18 Episode 169 Rich Little (guest host), Cleveland Amory

Rich Little, the impressionist comedian, takes over as guest host for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in season 18 episode 169. Little has been a frequent guest on the show, and he takes on the challenge of stepping into Carson's shoes. Joining Little on the show is Cleveland Amory, a writer and animal rights activist.

Little starts off the show with a monologue that includes some impressions, of course. He jokes about the news of the day, with quips about President Reagan, Walter Mondale, Prince Charles, and Priscilla Presley. Little also does a bit as Ronald Reagan talking to his wife, Nancy, and as Frank Sinatra singing about his failed marriage to Mia Farrow. Little's impressions are spot-on and hilarious, and he's clearly comfortable in front of the audience.

Next up, Little interviews Cleveland Amory. Amory is a fascinating figure, known for his work as a TV critic, and his advocacy for animal rights. Little asks Amory about his latest book, "The Cat Who Came for Christmas," which is based on Amory's experience adopting a stray cat. Amory talks passionately about his love for cats and how they have become such an important part of his life. Little also asks Amory about his work as a TV critic and his opinions on the current state of television. Amory is thoughtful and insightful, making for an interesting interview.

After the interview, Little introduces the musical guest, Al Hirt, a jazz trumpeter. Hirt plays a lively number that gets the crowd tapping their feet.

Little then does more impressions, this time of celebrities in the news. He imitates Elizabeth Taylor and her many marriages, as well as Brooke Shields and her Calvin Klein ads. Little also does a bit as the famous boxer Muhammad Ali, talking about his upcoming fight against Trevor Berbick. Little's impressions are so good that it's almost like having the real celebrities on the show.

The final segment of the show is a sketch with Little and Amory. Little plays a game show host, and Amory is a contestant. The game, called "What's My Sex?" is a parody of the classic TV game show "What's My Line." Amory has to guess whether various animals are male or female, and he struggles to keep up with Little's zany antics. The sketch is funny and a great way to end the show.

Overall, Rich Little does an excellent job as guest host for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in season 18 episode 169. His impressions are top-notch, and he's engaging and funny throughout the show. Cleveland Amory is a great guest, and his interview is informative and entertaining. The musical guest, Al Hirt, is also a treat to watch. Little shows that he has what it takes to host a show like The Tonight Show and keeps the audience entertained until the very end.