The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 20 Episode 45 Joan Rivers (guest host), Angie Dickinson, Rich Little
- January 25, 1982
Joan Rivers takes the stage as guest host for this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Rivers brings her quick wit and edgy humor to the show, and wastes no time in poking fun at Carson himself. She jokes about his divorce, his love life, and even his co-host Ed McMahon.
Rivers' first guest is the lovely Angie Dickinson, who talks about her role in the hit television series Police Woman. The two discuss the challenges of playing an independent woman on television, and Dickinson shares some behind-the-scenes stories from the set. The conversation takes a hilarious turn when Rivers asks Dickinson to demonstrate her karate skills, resulting in some unexpected kicks and punches.
Next up is celebrity impressionist Rich Little, who Rivers introduces as "the man who can imitate anyone, except his own wife". Little performs some of his most famous impressions, including Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and Johnny Carson himself. Rivers and Little banter back and forth, with Rivers calling out the flaws in some of Little's impressions and Little retaliating with some hilarious comebacks.
Throughout the show, Rivers keeps the audience laughing with her signature brand of humor. She delivers some risqué jokes about sex and relationships, and even takes a few jabs at some current events. Despite her controversial reputation, Rivers proves to be a competent and entertaining host, filling Johnny Carson's shoes with ease.
As the show comes to a close, Rivers thanks her guests and the audience for a fun-filled evening. She promises to return as guest host soon, leaving the audience cheering for more. This episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a must-watch for fans of classic late-night television.