The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 9 Episode 45 Jerry Lewis (guest host), Richard Boone, Larry Best, Dr. Leopold Bellak
- December 21, 1970
Jerry Lewis takes over as guest host for a fun-filled episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Joining him are guests Richard Boone, Larry Best, and Dr. Leopold Bellak.
The show opens with Lewis enthusiastically greeting the audience and introducing his first guest, actor Richard Boone. The two chat about Boone's current projects, including his role in the upcoming film "Big Jake" and his work on the TV series "Hec Ramsey." Boone also shares some humorous anecdotes from his more than three decades in show business.
Next up is Larry Best, who has a unique talent for impersonating celebrities. Lewis eagerly requests some of his best impressions, and Best delivers spot-on versions of everyone from Groucho Marx to Lyndon B. Johnson. The audience eats it up, and Lewis declares that Best is a "wild and woolly character."
Finally, Dr. Leopold Bellak joins the show to discuss his latest book, "How to Be Your Own Best Friend." Lewis admits that he's never been much of a reader, but is intrigued by Bellak's message of self-love and self-care. The two have a heartfelt conversation about the importance of taking care of oneself, and Bellak shares some practical advice for viewers at home.
Throughout the show, Lewis keeps the energy high with his trademark humor and irreverence. He jokes about everything from his famous Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon to the bad coffee on set, and even breaks into an impromptu song and dance number at one point.
Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show is a lively and entertaining hour of television, thanks in large part to Jerry Lewis's infectious personality and hosting style. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood stars like Richard Boone, enjoy impersonations and humor like Larry Best, or are looking for some self-improvement tips from Dr. Leopold Bellak, there's something for everyone in this episode.