On a recent episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. made an appearance that had the audience in awe. Known for his incredible talent and unique style, Davis Jr. showcased his signature charisma and wit during his chat with Johnny Carson.
As he made his entrance, Davis Jr. donned a stylish outfit that caught everyone's attention. He joked about his choice of attire, mentioning that his wife had picked it out for him specifically for the show. The two hosts engaged in light banter about the exaggerated introductions often given in show business. Davis Jr. expressed that while he appreciated the praise, he found it difficult to live up to such high expectations.
The conversation took a playful turn as Carson asked Davis Jr. about his talent for doing impressions. Davis Jr. revealed that in his early career, he used to incorporate impressions into his acts. However, after witnessing the talents of impressionists like Rich Little and George Kirby, he felt he couldn't compete. Nonetheless, he treated the audience to a brief impression of Humphrey Bogart, showcasing his remarkable skill.
The duo continued to entertain the audience with their lighthearted banter. Davis Jr. reminisced about the early days of his career when he used to perform impressions with fellow performers like Larry Storch. He explained that back then, the goal was to find a unique impression that nobody else could do. For him, it was John Garfield, whom he admired for his special tonal quality.
Carson, known for his own comedic timing, asked Davis Jr. when he felt he had finally "made it" in show business. Davis Jr. reflected on a specific moment four years prior while performing at the Sands in Las Vegas. It was then that he realized he no longer had to prove himself. The audience accepted him for who he was, allowing Davis Jr. to focus solely on delivering an outstanding performance.
The conversation took another turn as Davis Jr. expressed his excitement about his upcoming project, a pilot film called "Poor Devil." He took the opportunity to thank the crew, cast, and NBC for their support. Davis Jr. noted that the film was a family-friendly production, urging everyone to tune in.
To end the segment on a high note, Davis Jr. showcased his spectacular singing abilities. Backed by Severinsen's band, he treated the audience to a rendition of "In the Still of the Night." His smooth voice and captivating performance left the audience in awe, earning him a well-deserved round of applause.
As the show came to a close, Davis Jr. expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to perform in front of Johnny Carson. Davis Jr. marveled at the talent and professionalism of Carson, his band, and the crew. The legendary entertainer proved once again why he was considered one of the greatest in the industry.
Make sure to catch Sammy Davis Jr. in "Poor Devil" and stay tuned for more captivating moments on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.
