On a recent episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, the legendary host welcomed comedian Bob Newhart to the stage. The two friends wasted no time in engaging in playful banter and interrupting each other, much to the delight of the audience.
Bob Newhart, known for his dry wit and deadpan delivery, received a warm welcome from the crowd. Johnny Carson, always quick with a quip, jokingly mentioned that he wouldn’t give Bob a grand introduction since he was already a well-known figure.
As the conversation flowed, Bob Newhart revealed that he had been on tour in the East, performing at venues like Westbury and Valley Forge. While he enjoyed performing for lovely audiences, the long days on the road could sometimes be tiring, leaving him cooped up in hotel rooms.
The topic then shifted to daytime television, and Bob Newhart mentioned a funny commercial that had caught his attention. Although it had been taken off the air, the commercial depicted a man going through French Customs and using an unconventional response when asked if he had anything to declare.
Johnny Carson, never one to shy away from humor, couldn’t believe what he was hearing. They discussed the effectiveness of such a direct approach and how it would surely grab people’s attention. The conversation took a hilarious turn as they imagined the reactions of those around the person making such a declaration.
The chat then took a more serious turn as Johnny Carson mentioned that Bob Newhart‘s show was no longer on the air. Bob confirmed that his show had ended after a successful run of eight seasons. However, he mentioned that he had recently made a movie with a chimpanzee, adding that he had some exciting announcements in store.
Johnny Carson, always inquisitive, asked if Bob was planning to run for public office. Bob immediately brushed off the suggestion, stating that he had no such plans. They both shared a good laugh over the misunderstanding.
Returning to the topic of the movie with the chimpanzee, Bob revealed that the chimp’s name was Bubbles and that it belonged to Michael Jackson. Johnny Carson playfully remarked that they should register chimp names, much like horses.
They continued their witty banter, with Bob Newhart pointing out that Johnny had used his voice in The Rescuers and Johnny recalling that Bob had played Stuart Little. Bob did find one thing he could lord over Johnny – he had been offered to be a marshal in a parade, which Johnny had not.
The conversation circled back to working with the chimp in the movie. Bob explained that while the chimp was lovable, they had a reputation for lacking concentration. He shared a touching moment when Bubbles’ attention waned during filming and how two trainers had to work to keep his focus.
As the interview neared its end, Johnny Carson mentioned that Bob had recently visited Germany. Bob spoke fondly of the country, describing it as beautiful and rich in history. He jokingly mentioned the literal nature of Germans, contrasting it with Americans’ tendency to say the opposite of what they mean.
The lively conversation ended with the promise of returning after a commercial break, leaving the audience eagerly awaiting their return. Bob Newhart and Johnny Carson‘s chemistry and quick wit made for an entertaining and unforgettable segment on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.
Overall, this chat show episode was a delightful mix of humor, camaraderie, and interesting anecdotes. Bob Newhart and Johnny Carson‘s magnetic personalities and comedic timing made for a truly memorable and entertaining night on The Tonight Show.
Originally aired on July 7, 1991
