The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 19 Episode 53 Joan Rivers (guest host), Larry Hagman, Ricky Schroder

Joan Rivers steps in as guest host on this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, bringing along Larry Hagman and Ricky Schroder as guests.

The episode begins with a monologue delivered by Rivers, who quickly establishes her familiar brand of self-deprecating humor. She jokes about her age, her plastic surgery, and her career trajectory. She also takes a playful jab at Carson, confessing that "every time [she] comes on this show, [she] feels like [she's] in [her] second husband's bed - nobody's there."

Next up is Larry Hagman, who is best known for his roles in the television shows I Dream of Jeannie and Dallas. The actor appears relaxed and charismatic as he chats with Rivers about his career and personal life. He shares stories about his experiences filming in different locations, his love for aviation, and his fondness for practical jokes. In one memorable moment, he reveals that he once brought a live chicken onto the set of Dallas and scared the cast and crew with its clucking and flapping.

After a commercial break, Rivers welcomes Ricky Schroder to the show. The young actor had risen to fame as a child star on the show Silver Spoons and was now transitioning into adult roles. Rivers asks him about this process and they discuss his recent work on the film The Champ. Schroder, who is polite and well-spoken, talks about his methods for preparing for roles and the challenges of performing emotional scenes.

Throughout the episode, Rivers keeps the energy high with her quick wit and playful banter. She interacts with the guests in a natural and friendly way, showing off her skills as a seasoned comedian and host. She brings up topics like current events, popular culture, and personal anecdotes, keeping the conversation lively and engaging.

One notable moment comes when the conversation turns to the topic of plastic surgery. Rivers, who was open about her own procedures, talks to Hagman about his decision to have a liver transplant. The discussion is frank and honest, with both guests sharing their perspectives on the sometimes controversial topic of cosmetic enhancements and medical interventions.

Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson showcases the talents of Joan Rivers as a guest host and comedian. She leads engaging interviews with Larry Hagman and Ricky Schroder, bringing out their personalities and providing moments of humor and insight. With her characteristic wit and charm, Rivers proves to be a worthy replacement for Carson and a beloved figure in the world of late-night television.