Actor Eli Wallach made his only appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and it was an entertaining and memorable chat show moment. Wallach, known for his accomplishments on both stage and screen, had recently appeared in the film “The Deep” and was about to open a new play in Toronto called “Abs and Friends” with his wife, Ann Jackson, who is also an actress.
During the interview, Wallach and Carson discussed the craft of acting and the challenges that come with it. Wallach expressed his admiration for true professionals in the industry and shared how important it is to make the audience believe in the lines you deliver. He also shared a delightful anecdote about his wife’s ability to handle forgetting lines on stage, which always garners a positive and supportive response from the audience.
The conversation turned to a discussion about actors’ nerves and going up on lines. Wallach humorously compared the feeling to being caught between bases during a baseball game, with nowhere to go. He also recalled a funny incident involving a Polish stage manager who had just learned English and delivered a line in a soft voice, causing Wallach to momentarily forget his own lines.
Johnny Carson mentioned a touching moment he witnessed with actor George C. Scott, who, despite a substitute actress filling in for his ill wife in a play, went out in front of the curtain himself to explain the situation to the audience. This move helped them relax and appreciate the rest of the performance.
Wallach and Carson also shared a laugh about a dentist’s unconventional habit of showing Wallach risqué stills from an Italian movie while he was in the dentist chair. The conversation flowed effortlessly, showcasing the natural camaraderie between the two entertainers.
Carson, always interested in the behind-the-scenes stories, asked Wallach if he had ever been in a truly horrendous production. Wallach humorously recounted a time when he played Napoleon in a movie and intentionally avoided putting his hand in the typical pose to avoid being cliché. He described the comical ways he devised to get around the expected gesture, ultimately making the entire experience a lighthearted one.
The conversation shifted to Wallach’s working relationship with his wife, Ann. Although they occasionally had their disagreements, Wallach expressed his admiration for her talent and shared how their fights sometimes added an extra layer of depth to their performances. He highlighted their ability to read each other on stage and find real emotions in the midst of a heated argument.
This lively and engaging interview showcased the wit and charm of both Eli Wallach and Johnny Carson. The chemistry between the two was apparent, and their conversation flowed effortlessly from one topic to another. Wallach’s anecdotes and insights into the world of acting provided a refreshing and entertaining peek behind the scenes.
Overall, Wallach’s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a delightful and memorable chat show moment that showcased his talent and charisma. The interview was a true testament to the art of storytelling and the unique connection between actors and their audience.
Originally aired on September 1, 1977
