In an exciting twist on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, talk show legend Merv Griffin made his first-ever appearance as a guest! With his own show recently wrapping up after an impressive 23-year run, it was the perfect opportunity for both hosts to come together and chat about their experiences in the industry.
Merv Griffin, known for his charm and wit, received a warm welcome from the audience as he took a seat next to Johnny Carson. The two hosts wasted no time in diving into a lively conversation, highlighting the success and longevity of Merv’s show. As Johnny Carson pointed out, any entertainer who can captivate audiences for 23 years has something truly special.
Throughout the interview, Merv Griffin and Johnny Carson playfully exchanged banter, showcasing their familiarity and camaraderie. Johnny Carson couldn’t help but tease Merv about the residual income he receives from his iconic talk show theme song. Merv jokingly responded, proving that he’s not only a talented host but also someone who can take a good-natured ribbing.
As the conversation continued, Johnny Carson playfully imitated some of Merv Griffin‘s familiar mannerisms, revealing the subconscious quirks that entertainers often display. Merv acknowledged these habits but explained how performers become so engrossed in their craft that they sometimes forget their own idiosyncrasies. The audience chuckled along, enjoying the insight into the world of talk show hosting.
The conversation then shifted to Merv Griffin‘s final show, which aired that night. With mixed emotions, Merv explained the deep impact such a milestone had on him. He shared a personal anecdote of his impromptu journey to Laughlin, Nevada, just days before his show’s finale. Standing on a hill, overlooking the vibrant lights of Las Vegas, Merv felt a mix of nostalgia and excitement for the future.
In a touching moment, Merv Griffin bid a heartfelt farewell to his loyal audience. He expressed his gratitude for their support over the years, acknowledging the long journey they had taken together. Merv concluded his final show with a simple but poignant message: “That’s all, folks.”
The conversation between Merv Griffin and Johnny Carson took a nostalgic turn as they reminisced about the start of their respective careers. They discovered they had many shared experiences, including their early days in radio and their transition into television. Both hosts had even worked on game shows and Broadway productions, making their paths remarkably similar.
In a surprising revelation, Merv Griffin confessed that he once had a short-lived stint in the film industry. Although he only appeared in a handful of movies, Merv’s magnetic personality and talent shone through in every role.
The conversation between Merv Griffin and Johnny Carson flowed effortlessly, with topics ranging from their shared experiences to personal anecdotes. The two hosts bonded over their tall and slender frames, their love for Coca-Cola, and their mutual acquaintance with Don Knotts.
As the interview drew to a close, the hosts revealed their plans for the future. Merv Griffin hinted at a potential show inspired by the big band era, featuring new music from the Coconut Grove in Los Angeles. Although the details weren’t finalized yet, it was clear that Merv’s creative spirit continued to thrive.
Merv Griffin‘s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a delightful blend of humor, nostalgia, and camaraderie. It showcased the incredible talent and charisma of both hosts and left the audience eagerly anticipating what the future held for Merv Griffin‘s next venture.
Overall, the meeting of these talk show giants was a momentous occasion, and it’s safe to say that the entertainment world will never forget the night Merv Griffin sat down with Johnny Carson for the first time.
Originally aired on September 5, 1986
