The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 22 Episode 81 Sammy Davis, Jr., Charles Nelson Reilly

In season 22, episode 81 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, Johnny welcomes two incredibly talented guests to his couch: Sammy Davis, Jr. and Charles Nelson Reilly.

Sammy Davis, Jr. needs little introduction - he was a singer, dancer, and actor whose career spanned several decades and genres. Davis was known for his incredible stage presence and his ability to captivate audiences both on stage and on screen. He was also a prolific writer and activist, and during this episode, he and Johnny discuss everything from politics to showbiz.

Charles Nelson Reilly is another beloved figure in entertainment, though perhaps not as recognizable as Sammy Davis, Jr. Reilly was a character actor and director who worked across various mediums, including theatre, film, and television. He was perhaps best known for his work on game shows like Match Game and Hollywood Squares, but he was also a Tony-winning Broadway performer.

Throughout this episode, Johnny engages both guests in lively conversation about their respective careers and experiences. Sammy Davis, Jr. speaks openly about the challenges he faced as a black man in show business, from segregation to being called racial slurs. He also discusses his friendship with Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, recalling hilarious anecdotes about their wild escapades.

Charles Nelson Reilly is just as forthcoming with his stories, regaling Johnny and the audience with tales about his time working with legendary performers like Julie Harris and Zero Mostel. He also talks candidly about his own struggles with alcoholism and how he overcame them.

Of course, no episode of The Tonight Show would be complete without a few laughs, and Johnny makes sure to deliver. He and his guests participate in several skits and comedic bits, including a hilarious game of "Stump the Band" and a mock interview where Johnny impersonates a French reporter.

Throughout the episode, there's a sense of camaraderie among the guests and the host. While they each come from different backgrounds and have their own unique experiences to share, they all share a common love of entertainment and a desire to make people laugh and feel good. It's a reminder of the power of humor and the importance of coming together, even in the midst of difficult times.

Ultimately, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a tribute to the talent and resilience of its guests. Sammy Davis, Jr. and Charles Nelson Reilly may have come from different worlds, but they both left an indelible mark on entertainment and on those lucky enough to have seen them perform. Through their stories and their infectious energy, they remind us of the power of laughter and the enduring appeal of great showmanship.