Johnny Carson was known for his laughter, but it was rare for a guest to make him truly crack up. With a long career in show business, Carson was a seasoned host of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson for 30 years. Before that, he had performed on radio and television with some of the greatest entertainers of all time. Carson usually had a shrewd and dry sense of humor, so it was a real treat when a guest on his show could make him lose his composure.
In 1978, Steve Martin was promoting his new movie, The Jerk, directed by Carl Reiner, on The Tonight Show. During his appearance, Martin said that he couldn’t stay because of the filming and rehearsal schedule of the movie. He made his exit, but then surprisingly came back to Carson’s desk. Carson quickly exhaled a puff of his cigarette, a habit he regretted doing on camera by then, and Martin began to explain why he returned.
Carson’s face turned red from laughing so hard, and it seemed like tears were coming out of his eyes. Martin’s explanation for his return was hilarious, and Carson couldn’t stop laughing. In the past, guests would move down the row of seats as more guests came out, but there was a new trend at the time where big stars would leave after their interviews. It was seen as a status move, and Martin wanted in on it.
Carson’s laughter was infectious, and the audience couldn’t help but join in. It was a rare moment where Carson’s composure was completely lost, and Martin’s humor had won him over. This moment between Carson and Martin has become a classic moment in television history, and it remains an example of how even the most seasoned of hosts can still be surprised by their guests.
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