On December 18th, 1981, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson aired a special Christmas episode that left audiences entertained and in high spirits. Hosted by the legendary Johnny Carson, the talk show featured a star-studded lineup including renowned comedian Bob Hope, actress and activist Jane Fonda, and the talented Sarah Vaughn.
As the show began with the lively tune from the NBC Orchestra, Carson’s trusted sidekick Ed McMahon and bandleader Tommy Nome welcomed the audience to join them on this festive evening. The excitement in the studio was palpable as Carson made his grand entrance, greeted by thunderous applause.
Carson wasted no time in showcasing his quick wit and charm. He jokingly mentioned receiving a less than stellar gift, setting the tone for an amusing monologue. Engaging with his co-hosts, Carson bantered with Nome about Doc (presumably the show’s resident doctor) being on his way to Rome, quipping that he might be going for the lasagna.
Injecting his signature humor into the conversation, Carson playfully referred to the NBC commissary, conveniently located nearby, where diners ordering the meatloaf would receive a free Heinl maneuver, a playful nod to a maneuver used to dislodge choking hazards.
With Christmas just seven days away, Carson couldn’t help but comment on the lack of snow in California. Being from the Midwest, he nostalgically recalled the magic of a white Christmas and even poked fun at the unconventional timing of Christmas specials in Hollywood, which are filmed in August. Carson amusingly mentioned Perry Como taping an Easter special in Guam at that very moment, showcasing the quirks of the entertainment industry.
As the monologue continued, Carson addressed the changing cultural landscape of Christmas and the onslaught of commercials bombarding television screens. He playfully derided the trend of marketing items as “ideal gifts for Dad” that were far from ideal. From roach motels to tire gauges, Carson entertained the audience with his hilarious take on outrageous gift ideas.
Carson further observed the shift in Christmas shopping habits, with more people opting for catalog shopping by mail rather than braving the stores. He even highlighted the increasingly popular “Fruit of the Month” and “Meat of the Month” clubs, joking about the peculiar gift ideas flooding mailboxes.
Ever the satirical observer, Carson shared a humorous Christmas card he received from Southern California Edison Company, reminding customers to pay their bills before Christmas, or risk losing the calm and brightness associated with the holiday season.
As the monologue drew to a close, Carson took a playful jab at the intense saturation of Christmas commercials on television, leaving many viewers exhausted. He mentioned the famous “Fruit of the Month Club” and humorously introduced the lesser-known “Meat of the Month Club,” complete with amusing suggestions for featured meats throughout the year.
Carson shared anecdotes from the recent office party at The Tonight Show, poking fun at the hazards of too much holiday cheer. He even humorously hinted at the cost of the NBC employees’ Christmas bonus, eliciting laughter from the audience.
The monologue concluded with Carson teasing the exciting lineup for the night, featuring the talented Jane Fonda, the legendary Bob Hope, and the incomparable Sarah Vaughn. With anticipation building, Carson bid the audience to stay tuned for an unforgettable show.
With his trademark humor and comedic timing, Johnny Carson captured the essence of Christmas in his monologue on The Tonight Show. The lively banter, laughter, and anticipation set the stage for a memorable evening filled with joy, entertainment, and a touch of holiday spirit.
