The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 20 Episode 186 Joan Rivers (guest host), Erma Bombeck, Sarah Purcell

In The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 20 episode 186, Joan Rivers takes the reins as guest host, bringing along guests Erma Bombeck and Sarah Purcell to join in on the fun. The show opens with a comedic monologue from Rivers, discussing everything from current events to her own personal life.

Once the monologue ends, Rivers introduces Erma Bombeck, a popular author and humorist known for her witty writing on family and domestic life. Bombeck speaks about her latest book, "The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank," and the two women discuss their own experiences with marriage and motherhood. The audience is treated to several humorous anecdotes from both Bombeck and Rivers, including stories about child-rearing and spousal quibbles.

Next up, actress and TV host Sarah Purcell joins the conversation, discussing her work on the popular show "Real People." The trio discuss the success of the show and the appeal of featuring everyday people and their unique talents. Purcell also talks about her own experiences in the entertainment industry, including her time as a beauty queen and her transition into broadcasting.

After a commercial break, Rivers stages a hilarious sketch in which she interviews Carson in his bathtub, complete with bubbles and a rubber ducky. The sketch is a nod to Carson's famous bathtub interviews, and Rivers dons a blonde wig and impersonates Carson's signature voice to humorous effect.

As the show draws to a close, the guests and Rivers share a final round of jokes and lighthearted banter. The episode is a testament to the enduring popularity of "The Tonight Show" and Carson's impact on the entertainment industry. Even with a guest host at the helm, the show remains true to its comedic roots and delivers plenty of laughs for its audience.