The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 5 Episode 323 Bob Hope, Pat Paulsen

In season 5 episode 323, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson welcomes two iconic guests: Bob Hope and Pat Paulsen.

Bob Hope, the legendary comedian and actor, was already a household name by the time this episode aired in 1970. He had been in show business for over 50 years and had made countless appearances on television, radio, and film. Hope and Carson had a long-standing friendship and the two had a natural chemistry on screen. Hope's appearance on the show includes a segment where he discusses his recent visit to Vietnam to entertain American troops, a cause he was deeply committed to throughout his career. He also shares some of his trademark jokes and playful banter with Carson, making for a delightful and memorable appearance.

The other guest on this episode is Pat Paulsen, a comedian and satirist known for his deadpan delivery and absurd political commentary. Paulsen had gained national attention as a comic writer and performer on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, and continued to make regular appearances on talk shows like The Tonight Show throughout the 1970s. His segment on this episode includes a satirical commentary on current events and politics, delivered in his usual dry and droll manner.

Throughout the episode, Carson showcases his talent as a skilled interviewer and host, eliciting laughs and insights from his guests and engaging the live audience with his affable personality. Along with his signature monologue and musical performances, the episode features a variety of skits and segments, including a cooking demo with celebrity chef James Beard and a demonstration of martial arts by Bruce Lee. The overall tone of the show is light-hearted and entertaining, making it a great example of the classic late-night talk show format.

Overall, season 5 episode 323 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a must-see for comedy fans and anyone interested in the history of late-night television. With iconic guests, hilarious segments, and Carson's charm and wit on full display, it's a masterclass in the art of the talk show.