The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 18 Episode 207 David Brenner (guest host), Eric Idle, John Cleese

David Brenner guest hosts for Johnny Carson on this episode of The Tonight Show, season 18 episode 207. The show features two prominent comedians, Eric Idle and John Cleese, both known for their work with the British comedy group Monty Python.

The episode opens with Brenner's monologue, in which he sets the tone for the show by discussing current events and making lighthearted jokes about his own life. He introduces Idle and Cleese, and the three discuss their mutual love of comedy and their experiences working together.

The conversation turns to Monty Python, and Idle and Cleese share stories from their time with the group. They discuss the origins of some of their most famous sketches, such as the "Dead Parrot" sketch and the "Ministry of Silly Walks." Brenner asks about the group's creative process, and Cleese and Idle explain how they would pitch and refine their ideas until they were ready for the stage.

The conversation then turns to the idea of pushing boundaries in comedy, and Idle and Cleese discuss their experiences with censorship and controversy. They talk about their decision to include sensitive topics such as religion and politics in their comedy, and how they navigated criticism and backlash. The three also discuss the importance of satire in comedy, and its ability to highlight and challenge societal issues.

Next, Brenner introduces a comedy segment with Eric Idle, in which he performs a solo sketch about a man who is convinced he is invisible. The audience laughs as Idle expertly portrays the confused and befuddled character, stumbling around the stage and interacting with invisible objects.

After the sketch, Cleese joins the conversation once more, and the three discuss their views on the current landscape of comedy. They talk about the rise of political correctness and cancel culture, and how it has affected the way comedians approach their material. They also discuss the role of comedy in times of political turmoil and division, and how it can bring people together through laughter.

The episode closes with Brenner thanking Idle and Cleese for joining him on the show and bidding the audience farewell. As the credits roll, the audience is left with a sense of nostalgia for the golden age of comedy, and an appreciation for the talent and wit of these legendary performers.

Overall, season 18 episode 207 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a must-watch for comedy fans. With David Brenner's affable hosting and the wit and humor of Eric Idle and John Cleese, this episode delivers laughs and insight into the world of comedy.