The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 9 Episode 61 Jerry Lewis (guest host)
- January 13, 1971
Jerry Lewis is taking over hosting duties on The Tonight Show in this episode. As a legendary comedian in his own right, Lewis proves himself to be a natural replacement for Johnny Carson. He kicks off the show with a comedic monologue that has the audience laughing from start to finish. Lewis's humor is a bit different than Carson's, but it's no less effective at entertaining the studio audience.
One of the standout segments of the episode is when Lewis brings out actress Lily Tomlin for an interview. The two of them have a great rapport and bounce jokes off each other with ease. Tomlin is a natural comedian in her own right, and her wit and charm match Lewis's perfectly. They joke about everything from Tomlin's acting career to her appearance on Sesame Street. It's a joy to watch these two entertainers bantering back and forth.
Another notable guest on this episode is crooner Tony Bennett. Bennett performs two songs for the audience, showing off his smooth voice and easygoing stage presence. Lewis joins Bennett on stage at one point, and the two of them sing a duet that brings the house down. It's clear that Lewis has a lot of respect for Bennett as a performer, and their chemistry together is undeniable.
In addition to these guests, Lewis brings out several other notable personalities for interviews and comedic sketches. One of these is the actor and comedian Jack Carter, who jokes around with Lewis about everything from politics to show business. Another is the singer Linda Ronstadt, who performs a few songs and talks about her experiences in the music industry. Lewis also performs some of his own comedic bits throughout the episode, showcasing his trademark physical humor and zany characters.
One of the things that stands out about this episode is how seamlessly Lewis takes over hosting duties from Carson. While it's clear that he has his own style of humor and interviewing, he manages to keep the same level of excitement and energy that Carson always brought to the show. The audience seems just as thrilled to see Lewis on the stage as they were to see Carson. It's a testament to Lewis's skill as a performer that he can step into such a high-profile role and make it his own.
Overall, this episode of The Tonight Show is a must-watch for fans of comedy and entertainment. With Lewis at the helm, it's a lighthearted and fun-filled hour that's sure to leave viewers in good spirits. Whether you're a fan of Lewis's classic films or simply enjoy a good laugh, this episode is definitely worth checking out. It's an excellent example of just how talented and versatile a performer Jerry Lewis was, and a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic talk show.