The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 20 Episode 119 Joan Rivers (guest host), Lynn Redgrave, Pete Barbutti, Mimi Kennedy

Joan Rivers takes the reins as guest host on this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, featuring guests Lynn Redgrave, Pete Barbutti, and Mimi Kennedy.

Rivers brings her signature style of comedy to the Tonight Show stage, delivering punchline after punchline as she opens the show with her monologue. The studio audience eats up her quips and jabs, and Rivers proves herself to be a natural host, easing into the role as if she's been doing it for years.

Actress Lynn Redgrave sits down with Rivers to chat about her latest project, the film "Getting It Right," in which she stars alongside Helena Bonham Carter and Jane Horrocks. The two women discuss the intricacies of working on a film set, as well as Redgrave's upbringing in a famous theatrical family.

Next up is Pete Barbutti, a comedian and musician known for his mastery of the accordion. Barbutti performs a hilarious routine incorporating the accordion and some clever one-liners, leaving Rivers and the audience in stitches.

Actress Mimi Kennedy is the final guest of the evening, discussing her role in a new play called "El Grande de Coca Cola." Kennedy talks about the challenges of performing live theater and her love for the craft, as well as her personal life and family.

Throughout the show, Rivers keeps the energy high with her quick wit and no-nonsense approach to hosting. She even takes some time to interview the show's bandleader, Doc Severinsen, and playfully pokes fun at some of his fashion choices over the years.

As the episode draws to a close, Rivers thanks Carson for allowing her to fill in as guest host and expresses her admiration for him as a comedian and entertainer. The two share a warm embrace, and Rivers signs off with the promise to one day return to the Tonight Show stage.

Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a hilarious and entertaining hour of television, featuring a lineup of talented guests and a stand-in host who more than proves her mettle.