The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 5 Episode 6 Show #1053
- October 28, 1966
In Show #1053 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, viewers were greeted with a star-studded line-up of guests and segments that left them roaring with laughter. Johnny Carson, the iconic host with his quintessential charm and wit, delivered another memorable episode in the show’s fifth season.
The episode kicked off with Johnny exchanging jabs with his sidekick Ed McMahon and introducing the first guest – comedian Rodney Dangerfield. Rodney, whose quirky humor and self-deprecating jokes were a hit with the audience, engaged in a playful banter with Johnny and shared hilarious anecdotes about his life and career. From his early days performing at small clubs to his more recent appearances on iconic shows like The Ed Sullivan Show, Rodney's stories were a delight to listen to.
Next up was actress and singer Connie Stevens, who stole hearts with her timeless beauty and sweet melodies. Connie, known for her roles in Hollywood classics like Grease 2 and Hawaiian Eye, chatted with Johnny about her life as an entertainer and her recent album releases. She then treated the audience to a sensational performance of her chart-topping song "Too Young to Go Steady," leaving the crowd mesmerized with her poignant voice and vibrant personality.
Later, Johnny invited magician Harry Blackstone Jr. to the stage, who blew minds with his spellbinding tricks and illusions. From levitating people to teleporting rabbits, Blackstone's mastery over his craft was truly awe-inspiring. Johnny, always a good sport, played an active role in the performance, adding his comedic touch to the magical experience.
The episode also featured a segment with comedian Pat McCormick, whose satirical and razor-sharp humor was a perfect fit for the show. Pat, who was a regular on The Tonight Show, joined Johnny for a game of "Stump the Band," a popular segment where the band tried to guess a song requested by the audience. Pat's comedic timing and improvisational skills made for a rip-roaring segment that had everyone in stitches.
To close out the show, Johnny welcomed legendary singer Tony Bennett, who serenaded the audience with his signature blend of jazz and pop. Tony, whose velvety voice and magnetic personality have made him a household name in the music industry, sang several of his most popular songs, including "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" and "The Good Life." His enchanting performance left the audience cheering for an encore, and Johnny bid farewell to the guests with his trademark sign-off – "We'll see you all again soon. Goodnight, everybody!"
Overall, Show #1053 of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a well-rounded episode that showcased a diverse array of talent and personalities. From comedians to musicians to magicians, the show offered something for everyone and left the viewers thoroughly entertained. With Johnny's affable disposition and effortless hosting skills, the episode was a shining example of why The Tonight Show remained a beloved institution of American television for decades.