The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson has always been known for its incredible lineup of talented guests, and on the airdate of March 28, 1985, the show welcomed a group of young comedians that would soon make a name for themselves – The Groundlings with Jon Lovitz.
The Groundlings, an improvisational theater group based in Hollywood, had been honing their skills together for an impressive 11 years. With their brand new show receiving excellent reviews, Carson decided to give them a platform to showcase their talent and introduce them to a wider audience.
Making their first appearance on The Tonight Show, The Groundlings took the stage to present three short sketches from their latest production. The crowd erupted in applause as the performers showcased their impeccable comedic timing and their ability to think on their feet.
The first sketch featured Jon Lovitz as Tommy Flanagan, a member of Pathological Liars Anonymous. Lovitz’s fast-paced delivery and charming demeanor had the audience laughing as he shared his journey from truth-telling to compulsive lying. From claiming to have a long-lost brother to getting kicked out of his own house, Lovitz had the crowd in stitches with his hilarious storytelling.
The second sketch brought out the group’s talent for musical numbers, as they performed a catchy tune catered specifically to yuppies in the audience. With lyrics poking fun at the middle-class struggles and aspirations, the Groundlings had the audience clapping and singing along.
Finally, the third sketch introduced a commercial segment sponsored by the Driver’s Training Institute of Trucking. Todd, a recent graduate of the institute, shared his success story, claiming that it transformed his life from being broke and alcoholic to a successful truck driver, a U.S. senator, and even a popular figure amongst celebrities.
The Groundlings‘ appearance on The Tonight Show was met with great enthusiasm and left a lasting impression on both the audience and Carson himself. Their impeccable improvisational skills, comedic timing, and ability to bring laughter to the stage made them an instant hit.
It’s no wonder that The Tonight Show became a platform for rising talents, and The Groundlings with Jon Lovitz proved that they were ready to take the comedy world by storm. With their fresh and innovative approach to humor, this improvisational theater group became a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
Whether it was through Tommy Flanagan’s outrageous lies or the catchy tunes aimed at yuppies, The Groundlings showcased their versatility and undeniable talent. Their appearance on The Tonight Show was just the beginning of a successful journey that would solidify their place in the world of comedy.
As the episode came to a close, Carson expressed his gratitude to the performers and assured the viewers that more exciting acts were to come. The Groundlings with Jon Lovitz had made their mark and proved that they were here to stay.
Originally aired on March 28, 1985
