The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 22 Episode 39 Joan Rivers (guest host), Marilu Henner, Neil Simon

Joan Rivers, the iconic comedian, takes the reigns as guest host on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in season 22 episode 39. Rivers, no stranger to the couch of this late-night staple, delivers her quick-witted humor while interviewing acclaimed actress, Marilu Henner, and award-winning playwright and screenwriter, Neil Simon.

Henner, known for her roles in iconic television shows like Taxi and films like L.A. Story, discusses her new television series, Evening Shade, which had recently premiered on CBS. She shares her experience working with the cast and her character's evolving storyline. Rivers dives into the personal side of things by asking Henner about her relationship with then-husband, ex-fighter pilot Robert Lieberman. Henner indulges the audience with stories of their courtship and marriage.

Simon, the esteemed writer behind comedic masterpieces like The Odd Couple and Brighton Beach Memoirs, discusses his upcoming projects in film and Broadway. Rivers impresses the audience with her knowledge of Simon's extensive career, naming his various works and discussing each in detail. Simon also divulges details about his writing process and the inspiration behind his works.

Throughout the episode, Rivers showcases her comedic chops through various skits and jokes, even roasting Johnny Carson himself in the opening monologue. She also engages with the audience and invites them to participate in a game of "Guess the Celebrity Quote". Guests can win prizes like the "Joan Rivers wig" and "John Wayne toilet paper".

Overall, season 22 episode 39 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson delivers a lighthearted and entertaining evening of interviews and quips with guest host Joan Rivers, actress Marilu Henner, and playwright Neil Simon.