Can you believe it’s been nearly fifty years since that unforgettable night when Doris Day first sat with Johnny Carson on his iconic Tonight Show? A special evening, indeed, that we can still look back upon with warm nostalgia.
Doris Day, renowned for her magnetic screen presence and melodic voice, paired with the irrepressible Johnny Carson – it was truly a ‘Summit Meeting’, as Carson aptly put it, amidst the deafening applause of the live audience.
Despite appearing on the show earlier, this was the first time Carson interviewed the effervescent Doris. A self-confessed fan of hers since her first record, Carson hailed her as ‘the best entertainer in the world’ during their era. And if you ask us, he was right! Doris’s prolific career and contribution to the entertainment world certainly validate Carson’s accolades.
Their camaraderie was palpable right from the get-go. As both sported neck collars, a friendly exchange concerning their wellbeing ensued. When Carson asked what she did to stay alright, Doris laughed, “Nothing. Do what you want to do, John.” A refreshingly simple mantra for life, don’t you think?
As the interview progressed, the conversation took a lively turn toward their common friend, Mclean Stevenson. Doris confirmed their close friendship and shared an amusing anecdote about the quirky nicknames given to her by another mutual friend, Billy DeWolf. It seemed there wasn’t a dull moment in the mix, as Doris also revealed her love for bike riding and cream cheese – quite the unexpected pairing!
The television icon then shared a heartwarming story about some fans from the Midwest who turned up at her home. Far from being bothered, Doris invited them for a swim, referring to them as ‘special people.’
Her affection for fans and her genuine warmth were why she was so widely adored. On a lighter note, Doris, known for her undying love for animals, particularly dogs, spoke fondly of her furry companions. They were undoubtedly her stress-busters and faithful companions.
Moving onto her real passion, singing, Doris humbly claimed, “I’m rusty, John, but I’ll sing.” She fondly reminisced about the musicians in Les Brown’s band, specifically asking about Jimmy Zito. Once a part of Les Brown’s band, Zito was now with Carson’s band. To him, she candidly said, “Didn’t we have a good time? I treated everyone as brothers except one. I married him.” A playful reference to her marriage to George Weidler, a saxophonist in the band.
Looking back, the Doris Day and Johnny Carson interview remain a timeless memory, reflecting the warmth, wit, and charm of two of the greatest entertainers of their time. The authentic camaraderie and Doris’s humble, kind, and humorous nature made this interaction a captivating moment in television history. Here’s to cherishing those golden days of television and celebrating the legacy of Doris Day – a true gem of an entertainer.
