Clint Eastwood made a notable appearance on the infamous talk show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, on April 3, 1973. In this episode, Eastwood and Carson engaged in a lively discussion about the intelligence of pigs versus horses, a debate they had been embroiled in for years. The transcript reveals Clint’s inclination toward pigs as intelligent creatures, while Johnny Carson remained steadfast in his support for horses. Clint joked about never having personally conversed with either animal, but shared observations from farmers that suggest pigs possess greater intelligence. However, Johnny stuck to his belief that while pigs may be smarter in certain tests, horses possess native intelligence and innate abilities that make them appear intelligent. The banter between Eastwood and Carson was entertaining, showcasing their good-natured rivalry.
Aside from the pig versus horse debate, the conversation turned to Clint’s experiences with horses in his Western films. Clint emphasized the importance of choosing the right horse for a scene, as they can make or break an actor’s performance. He even joked about having arguments with horse trainers and feeling the urge to punch a horse on occasion. However, he clarified that he has never actually crossed that line and hitting animals is not something he condones.
The interaction between Clint Eastwood and Johnny Carson was not solely focused on animals. They also touched upon Eastwood’s latest film at the time, The High Plains Drifter. Clint addressed critics who accused his movies of glorifying violence and sadism. He argued that this particular film was more of a commentary on the complacency of society in accepting violence as long as it does not directly affect them. The plot revolves around a town that faces the consequences of their indifference towards violence when the protagonist, portrayed by Eastwood, forces them to confront their own defenselessness.
To add to the entertainment factor, a clip from The High Plains Drifter was shown during the episode. Carson complimented Eastwood’s cool persona, acknowledging the iconic image of a cowboy that resonates with many. Clint agreed, stating that playing cowboys fulfills childhood dreams and allows him to release his own fantasies. He reminisced about his own experiences as a child, pretending to be a cowboy and finding joy in the wild and adventurous spirit of the Old West.
Clint Eastwood‘s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson showcased his wit, humor, and charm. His banter with Johnny Carson, along with discussions about animals, his Western films, and the influence of childhood dreams, made for a delightful and engaging interview. The episode provided viewers with a glimpse into the personality and mindset of one of Hollywood’s iconic actors.
