The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 20 Episode 22 David Letterman (guest host), Dick Enberg, Jane Pauley
- December 2, 1981
David Letterman takes over hosting duties for Johnny Carson on this episode of The Tonight Show. Letterman, who was a frequent guest and guest host on the show, brings his unique brand of comedy and interviewing style to the stage.
Joining Letterman as guests on the episode are sports announcer Dick Enberg and television journalist Jane Pauley.
Enberg, who was known for his signature catchphrase "Oh my!" during basketball broadcasts, talks about his career in sports broadcasting and shares his favorite sports memories.
Pauley, who was a co-host of NBC's Today show at the time, discusses her transition from news to entertainment and shares her thoughts on the changing media landscape.
Throughout the episode, Letterman pokes fun at The Tonight Show's long history and its transition from Steve Allen to Johnny Carson. He also plays with the format of the show, including introducing a segment called "Stump the Band" where audience members try to identify obscure songs for the band to play.
As always, the episode features musical performances by the show's band led by Doc Severinsen. The mix of comedy, interviews, and music make for a classic episode of The Tonight Show.