The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 22 Episode 117 Joan Rivers (guest host), Charles Nelson Reilly, John Lithgow, Howie Mandel

Joan Rivers takes over as guest host for this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 22. Known for her sharp wit and comedic commentary, Rivers brings her unique perspective to the show as she interviews Charles Nelson Reilly, John Lithgow, and Howie Mandel.

First up is Charles Nelson Reilly, a beloved character actor known for his roles in classic TV shows such as Match Game and The Ghost and Mrs. Muir. Rivers and Reilly banter back and forth, exchanging jokes and stories from their long careers in entertainment. Reilly shares tales of working with legends like Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett, and Rivers peppers him with questions about his experiences as a gay man in Hollywood during the 1960s and 70s. The two have a natural chemistry and keep the audience laughing throughout their conversation.

Next, Rivers welcomes John Lithgow to the stage. Lithgow is best known for his dramatic work, including his Emmy-winning role as the Trinity Killer in Dexter, but he's no stranger to comedy either. Rivers and Lithgow chat about his work as a Shakespearean actor, his recent turn playing Winston Churchill in The Crown, and his latest project, a children's book called Dumpty: The Age of Trump in Verse. Lithgow even treats the audience to a rendition of one of the political poems from the book, showcasing his skill as a performer and garnering laughs from the crowd.

Finally, comedian and game show host Howie Mandel joins Rivers for a lively conversation about his career in comedy. Mandel shares stories about his early days in stand-up, his time as host of the game show Deal or No Deal, and his current gig as a judge on America's Got Talent. Rivers and Mandel also discuss mental health and the stigma surrounding mental illness, with Mandel opening up about his own struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The two have a candid and emotional conversation that demonstrates the power of comedy to bring people together and tackle difficult issues.

Throughout the episode, Rivers' sharp wit and unapologetic style keep the energy high and the laughs coming. She proves herself a worthy successor to Carson's throne as she navigates interviews with a range of guests, from classic Hollywood icons to contemporary comedians. This episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 22 is a must-see for anyone who loves comedy and wants to see one of the funniest women in entertainment at the top of her game.