On a recent episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, two Hollywood legends took center stage: Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau. The charismatic duo, known for their on-screen chemistry, brought their charm and wit to the talk show, captivating viewers with their lively conversation.
Carson introduced Lemmon as one of the top actors in the world, praising his versatility and talent. Lemmon, always humble, brushed off the compliment but couldn’t hide his joy. The actor shared that he had just completed his 37th picture in 28 years, a film called “Buddy Buddy,” alongside Matthau.
Matthau, who would join the conversation later, was known for his distinctive voice and dry humor. But first, it was time for Lemmon to take the stage. Despite battling pneumonia, Lemmon’s energy filled the room as he greeted Carson.
The conversation delved into Lemmon’s roots in Boston, where he fondly recalled the city’s holiday traditions. Being in California during the Christmas season was a bit different for him, as he associated the holiday with snow and cold weather.
Carson, always quick with a joke, playfully teased Lemmon about being in a daze, to which Lemmon responded with good humor. The two engaged in a lighthearted banter, showcasing their undeniable chemistry.
The discussion took a nostalgic turn as Carson mentioned Lemmon’s impressive filmography. Lemmon expressed his gratitude for having worked with great actors such as Henry Fonda, James Cagney, and William Powell. One of his favorite experiences was working with them on the film “Mister Roberts.”
Eventually, Matthau made his entrance, causing laughter and applause from the audience. The camaraderie between the two actors was evident as they jokingly bickered about their wives and their habits.
As the conversation continued, Lemmon shared some anecdotes from his early acting days, including his talent for mimicking sounds. He even demonstrated his childhood trick of making chicken noises without opening his mouth, much to the amusement of Carson and the audience.
The conversation turned to their latest collaboration, the film “Buddy Buddy,” directed by their mutual friend and renowned director Billy Wilder. This marked the fourth time Lemmon and Matthau had worked together, showcasing their unique dynamic on screen.
Lemmon playfully tried to take credit for directing Matthau in the film, but Matthau quickly defended his own choice of acting choices, which elicited laughter from everyone. Their genuine and comfortable rapport was a testament to their strong friendship.
Before wrapping up the segment, Carson showed a clip from “Buddy Buddy,” depicting a comical scene where Lemmon’s character repeatedly interrupts Matthau’s character, causing frustration and hilarity.
Throughout the interview, Lemmon and Matthau charmed the audience with their witty remarks and infectious laughter. Their genuine camaraderie was evident, showcasing why they were such a beloved pair both on and off-screen.
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson always provided a platform for Hollywood’s finest, and this episode was no exception. Lemmon and Matthau’s appearance on the show was a delightful reminder of their talent and enduring friendship.
Originally aired on December 10, 1981
