The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 19 Episode 61 Doug Henning
- February 13, 1981
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 19 episode 61 is an exciting and magical episode featuring the renowned magician, Doug Henning. The episode originally aired on May 1, 1980, and is sure to delight fans of Henning's iconic acts of illusion and mystique.
As with each episode of The Tonight Show, the show begins with Carson's signature monologue and opening banter. In this episode, Carson shares some jokes about current events and pop culture, poking fun at everything from the latest fashion trends to the political climate.
Once the jokes are out of the way, Carson welcomes his guest for the evening, Doug Henning. Henning was known for his wild and imaginative approach to magic, incorporating colorful costumes, upbeat music, and intricate set designs into his performances. He quickly became one of the most beloved figures in the world of magic and illusion.
As Henning sits down with Carson, the two immediately dive into a conversation about Henning's career, touching on everything from his early days as a performer to his biggest shows and performances. Henning is an engaging and personable guest, quickly captivating the studio audience with his easy charm and down-to-earth demeanor.
As the interview comes to a close, Henning prepares to perform a few of his signature illusions for the audience and viewers at home. The first act he performs is called the "Zig Zag" illusion, in which he appears to slice an assistant in half with a large blade, only for her to emerge unscathed moments later. The act is a crowd-pleaser, with Carson and the audience cheering and applauding the entire time.
Next, Henning performs an act called the "Escape from the Chamber of Death," in which he is locked inside a large container filled with water. The container is then lowered into a hole in the stage, as the audience watches in suspense. After a few tense moments, Henning emerges from the container unharmed, wowing the crowd with his daring and intensity.
The final act of the night is Henning's famous "Levitation" illusion, in which he appears to float several feet above the ground, suspended in midair by an invisible force. The act is one of Henning's most famous, and it's easy to see why - the effect is stunning and otherworldly, leaving the audience gasping and cheering in amazement.
Overall, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 19 episode 61 is a must-see for fans of magic and illusion. Henning's performances are top-notch, and Carson's interviewing skills make for an engaging and entertaining show from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan of Henning's work or simply enjoy a good magic act, this episode is sure to delight and amaze.