The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Season 9 Episode 69 Joan Rivers (guest host)

Joan Rivers takes over as guest host for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson season 9 episode 69 and brings her signature brand of humor to the stage. Known for her acerbic wit and boundary-pushing comedy, Rivers delivers an opening monologue that sets the tone for the night's proceedings.

The episode's first guest is actor Michael Landon, known for his roles in television shows such as Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie. Rivers talks with Landon about his transition from child actor to leading man and his experiences working on the set of his current show, Highway to Heaven. The conversation takes a slightly serious turn as Landon discusses his recent battle with cancer and the importance of staying positive in the face of adversity.

Next up is comedian George Miller, who brings some levity back to the show with his energetic stand-up routine. Rivers and Miller banter back and forth between jokes, with Miller teasing Rivers about her frequent plastic surgery and Rivers firing back with her trademark quick wit.

The musical guest for the episode is singer-songwriter Carole King, who performs her hit song "It's Too Late." King's soulful voice and passionate performance impresses the audience, and Rivers raves about her talents during the commercial break.

In the next segment, Rivers welcomes writer and television personality Dr. Ruth Westheimer to the show. The two discuss topics related to sex and relationships, with Dr. Ruth providing her expert advice on how to keep things spicy in the bedroom. Rivers, not one to shy away from controversy, asks Dr. Ruth about her thoughts on homosexuality and alternative lifestyles, sparking a heated debate between the two.

The final guest of the night is actor James Coburn, who talks with Rivers about his experiences working on his latest film project, High Risk. The conversation then turns to politics, with Coburn sharing his thoughts on the current state of affairs in the United States and his views on international relations.

As the show comes to a close, Rivers delivers a heartfelt goodbye to the audience and thanks them for tuning in. Despite some controversial moments throughout the episode, Rivers proves to be a capable guest host and successfully injects her own brand of humor into the show.