The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 7 Episode 266 Joan Rivers (guest host), Pamela Mason

Joan Rivers takes the reins as guest host for this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, bringing her signature wit and charm to the late-night stage. Joining her for the evening is actress and socialite Pamela Mason.

The show opens with a monologue from Rivers, who immediately pokes fun at herself for being a "second-tier" host compared to Carson. She dives into current events, joking about the ongoing Watergate scandal and the recent release of the film "The Exorcist." She also makes some quips about her own personal life, including her recent divorce.

Next up is a musical performance from The Carpenters, who sing their hit "Yesterday Once More." Rivers is clearly a fan, dancing in her seat and mouthing along to the lyrics.

After the break, Rivers welcomes Pamela Mason to the stage. The two women chat about Mason's famous husband, actor James Mason, and her own career as an actress. Mason describes her experience working with Alfred Hitchcock on the film "North by Northwest," and Rivers jokes that she's never been asked to star in a movie by the legendary director.

The conversation turns to more lighthearted topics, with Mason sharing some stories of her travels around the world and her love of antique shopping. Rivers also brings up some of the more scandalous rumors about Mason's personal life, and the two women laugh them off.

Up next is a comedy segment featuring stand-up comedian Pat Paulsen. He delivers a series of one-liners that range from silly to absurd, including jokes about bumper stickers and the popularity of astrology.

The final guest of the night is actor Gregory Peck, who joins Rivers on the couch for a chat. The two discuss Peck's upcoming film "The Omen," which has not yet been released. Peck also shares stories from his lengthy career in Hollywood, including his experience working on the film "To Kill a Mockingbird."

As the show comes to a close, Rivers thanks Peck and Mason for joining her and wraps up with some final jokes and banter. The credits roll as The Carpenters perform another song, and the audience applauds one last time.

Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a fun and lighthearted hour of television, filled with plenty of laughs and entertaining guests. Joan Rivers proves herself to be a capable host in Carson's absence, keeping the energy high and the conversation flowing smoothly. Pamela Mason and Gregory Peck are both engaging guests, providing some fascinating insights into the world of old Hollywood. Fans of late-night television and classic Hollywood will surely enjoy this episode.