In a classic episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, the talk show host had a hilarious and lively conversation with an eccentric guest named Floyd R. Turbo. The transcript of the conversation reveals Turbo’s unique perspective on the controversial topic of Skylab’s uncontrolled descent back to Earth.
Turbo, a self-proclaimed expert from the “cow chip kicking station,” took the opportunity to express his views on the situation. He argued that worrying about Skylab falling on people was unnecessary when compared to other everyday inconveniences, like pigeon droppings. According to Turbo, a four-ton hunk of metal falling from the sky is easier to avoid than getting hit by pigeon drizzle.
Unafraid to challenge popular opinions, Turbo suggested that if Skylab did crash, it might land on a cow pasture, providing an instant fast-food joint. His humor and wit also extended to his wishful thinking that Skylab would crash onto NBC, believing the network could use a “hit” in their ratings.
Turbo’s comedic rant didn’t stop there. He even joked about the possibility of Skylab crashing into Russia, suggesting that their weightlifting women could catch it. He also took a jab at his neighbor, Harvey Doulash, hoping Skylab would fall on his noisy house while he “broke in” his new wife.
Turbo’s storytelling and laughter-inducing abilities didn’t waver throughout the entire segment. He cheekily questioned why NASA didn’t ask the oil companies for advice, suggesting they were experts at keeping prices up. Turbo even poked fun at the astronauts themselves, claiming that his own brother was in fine shape after hitching a ride in the wheel well of a plane.
In his uniquely humorous style, Turbo raised his doubts about the need for Skylabs in the first place, proposing that if humans were meant to fly, God would have given them a lift to the airport. He playfully mocked the astronaut’s time in space, mentioning that they drank Tang and went to the bathroom in their suits for a month. Turbo concluded with satire, suggesting that NASA should offer half-price coupons like other airlines.
Floyd R. Turbo‘s appearance on The Tonight Show is a prime example of the entertaining and lively discussions that took place on the talk show. His witty remarks and humorous takes on Skylab’s descent provided viewers with a delightful and laughter-filled segment. The episode, which originally aired on June 15, 1979, remains a memorable and widely enjoyed moment from the show’s rich history.
Originally aired on June 15, 1979
