The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 21 Episode 135 Joan Rivers (guest host), Charlie Callas, Sylvester Stallone, Morgan Fairchild
- July 8, 1983
Joan Rivers takes the reins as guest host for this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Known for her sharp wit and irreverent humor, Rivers delivers a high-energy monologue that sets the tone for the rest of the show.
Her first guest is Charlie Callas, a comedian and actor known for his zany antics and rubber-faced expressions. Callas and Rivers trade jokes and stories, with Callas gamely playing along with Rivers' more outrageous antics. The two seem to have a genuine rapport, and the audience responds enthusiastically to their banter.
Next up is Sylvester Stallone, who is on the show to promote his latest film, Rocky III. Rivers introduces him with an irreverent mock-tribute, poking fun at the actor's beefcake image and penchant for action movies. Stallone takes it all in stride, smiling indulgently as Rivers teases him about his "ridiculously sculpted biceps" and asks if he can "dial a phone with those things."
Stallone is a natural storyteller, and he regales the audience with tales from the set of Rocky III. He talks about co-star Mr. T and how he had to train hard to keep up with the young boxer turned actor. He also discusses the challenges of filming fight scenes and how he had to learn to take a punch without getting hurt.
After Stallone's segment, Rivers introduces her last guest, actress Morgan Fairchild. Fairchild is charming and gracious, and she and Rivers talk about the ups and downs of being a Hollywood actress. Fairchild shares anecdotes from her time on the set of various projects, and she comes across as genuine and down-to-earth.
Throughout the episode, Rivers keeps the energy high with her quick wit and bold personality. She seems to enjoy being in the driver's seat, and her guests respond well to her humor and energy. All in all, this is an entertaining episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson that showcases the talents of an iconic comedian and her guests.