The Apollo 13 crew – Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert – made a memorable appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Host Johnny Carson introduced them as heroes, a title they were humble about, considering themselves professional test pilots. However, their great courage and skill under tremendously adverse conditions during the Apollo 13 mission made them heroes in the eyes of the entire world.
The talk show episode began with Carson asking the crew about their emotional experience upon returning to Earth. The audience gave them a standing ovation, which came as a surprise to the crew, showcasing the immense outpouring of support and appreciation they had received from people worldwide.
Carson highlighted the fact that the whole world seemed to come together to support the Apollo 13 crew during their crisis, including countries from the Communist Bloc. Lovell remarked that for a brief moment, the entire world felt united, emphasizing the power of shared endeavors like space exploration in bringing people together.
Carson took a lighthearted approach when he noted the military background of Lovell and Swigert, with Haise being the only civilian in the crew. Swigert, who was a bachelor, received some playful jabs about his single status from Carson, bringing laughter to the studio.
The crew’s busy schedule in New York City was discussed, with lunch with Mayor Lindsay, a press conference, watching a play, and attending a reception. Carson humorously mentioned that the mayor might have towed away their car if it had been double-parked, showcasing his wit.
Carson inquired about the debriefing process and the crew’s thoughts on their mission. They explained that debriefings serve to analyze their performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that they are always prepared for any situation.
The conversation veered towards the moment they realized something was wrong during the Apollo 13 mission. Swigert was the first to notice the problem, and Lovell mentioned that they initially did not grasp the seriousness of the situation. However, as the issue escalated, they became more aware and focused on finding solutions.
Carson explored the crew’s mindset during the crisis, asking if they ever contemplated the possibility of not making it back. Lovell admitted that the thought crossed their minds, but their extensive training and confidence in the redundant systems onboard helped them remain focused on finding a way back to Earth.
Carson also mentioned the loss of electrical power, as well as the extreme cold inside the spacecraft. The crew explained that their temperature dropped to 38 degrees, and they had to conserve power by shutting down non-essential systems. Despite the challenging circumstances, they maintained their sense of humor, as seen in the footage of them eating and joking around.
The interview captured the camaraderie and teamwork among the crew. They showcased their adaptability and resourcefulness, such as filming with a wide-angle lens to make their living space seem roomier on television.
Carson concluded the interview by acknowledging the significance of the Apollo 13 mission. He highlighted how it proved the reliability of backup systems and the resilience of the astronauts. The crew left a lasting impression, not just as space explorers, but as individuals who demonstrated extraordinary courage and determination in the face of adversity.
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson episode featuring the Apollo 13 crew aired on March 6, 1970, and will forever be remembered as a moment where the world came together to celebrate the triumph of human resilience and ingenuity.
Originally aired on June 3, 1970
