Comedian Steve Martin had the audience in stitches during his appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Known for his unique brand of humor, Martin proved that he could make even the phone book funny.
Describing Martin as a "very likable young man who lives in his own little world," Carson set the stage for what was to come. With his offbeat personality and quick wit, Martin had the audience in the palm of his hand.
Before diving into his phone book routine, Martin bantered with Carson about his upcoming college concerts in Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas. The anticipation was high as Martin promised to deliver his trademark comedy.
With a charismatic charm, Martin took the stage and greeted the audience as "Joe College." He teased about the star-studded lineup of guests on the show that night, including Florence Henderson, Candace Bergen, and James Hampton.
But the highlight of the evening was Martin's bold attempt to prove himself as a comedian. Inspired by the notion that great actors could make people cry by reading the phone book, Martin wanted to see if he could do the opposite and make people laugh.
Without any gags or gimmicks, Martin began flipping through the pages of the LA phone book. From the start, the audience was hooked. The first few names elicited chuckles, but as Martin continued, the laughter grew louder.
With names like Marianne Pinball and Miles Goomba, Martin skillfully turned ordinary names into sources of laughter. The audience was in hysterics as he moved through the pages, effortlessly finding humor in the most unexpected places.
The comedic timing and delivery were impeccable. Martin's ability to extract laughter from the mundane was a testament to his comedic genius. Each name he read became a punchline, leaving the audience in stitches.
As the routine continued, the laughter intensified. Martin's energetic performance kept the audience engaged and eager for more. Even when faced with a particularly challenging name, Martin found a way to turn it into a hilarious moment.
With every punchline, the applause grew, and the audience couldn't get enough. Martin's unique approach to comedy, devoid of any "phony comedian stuff," proved that he was a force to be reckoned with.
Throughout the routine, Martin's charisma shined. His ability to make people laugh, even without a traditional script, showcased his talent as a comedian. It was clear that Martin was in his element, effortlessly entertaining the crowd.
By the end of the routine, Martin had the audience in the palm of his hand. The resounding applause and laughter were a testament to his comedic prowess. He had successfully accomplished what he set out to do – make people laugh by reading the phone book.
Steve Martin's unforgettable performance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson cemented his status as a comedic powerhouse. His ability to find humor in the ordinary is what makes him a standout in the world of comedy. From college concerts to late-night talk shows, Martin continues to bring laughter wherever he goes.
Originally aired on March 21, 1973
