A recent video clip from Carson Tonight Show has gained significant popularity due to George Segal's candid interview with the host, Johnny Carson. Segal brought a unique mix of comedy and music to the show on July 2, 1974. It's a memory that's still fresh in our minds, evoking the cheerful vibes of that era.
The show started with the vibrant energy of Doc Severinsen & the Carson Band, setting the tone for an evening to remember. Johnny Carson, joined by the ever-hilarious Bob Newhart, welcomed George Segal to the stage with his trademark wit.
As they sat down, Carson talked about Segal's new album, A Touch of Ragtime, and his upcoming movie, California Split. However, he discovered that what he thought was the record was actually just the cover.
When Carson asked about the actual record (disc), Segal brushed it off with his quick wit. He changed the subject and spoke about wearing the shirt from the album cover to the show. He added that he didn't do that as it would have been too much.
Segal then shared the actual reason for the unavailability of the record. He informed Carson that it would be out in a couple of weeks, explaining that creating the album cover often took longer than the music itself.
Carson, constantly one to keep the conversation going, changed the subject and asked about Segal's new TV show. Segal turned the question back on Carson and asked, 'Do you know the name of the Show,' prompting laughter from the audience.
Eventually, Segal revealed the title: The George Segal Show and added Starring George Segal, drawing more laughs. Segal confessed that this was his first venture into the world of variety shows. And he reminisced about the time he hosted The Tonight Show for a day. He told Carson how people wanted him to do something completely different after that appearance.
The duo continued to discuss the show, including its Saturday 11:30 PM time slot. Carson questioned whether it was a good slot for his show. Segal jokingly said, "It's a slot where you can fool around and make mistakes, and nobody cares." However, Carson replied, "Oh, I thought my show was booking you." Making him burst out laughing.'
Then Carson and Seagal dived into a conversation about the star's busy schedule. Segal humorously replied, "I like to keep myself busy; it keeps me off the streets." After a brief commercial break, Segal decided to teach Bob Newhart and Johnny Carson to play the ukulele.
As they strummed the chords, the audience couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably. With his signature charm, Segal showed his new students how to play the chord on the ukelele. He even guided them to play a simple tune from his new movie California Splits. The jam session was spontaneous & filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Even as we recall this moment, we're still left with a smile. These beloved entertainers taught us that it's okay to let loose, be silly, and have fun, no matter the setting or circumstances.
If George Segal's 1974 Tonight Show appearance was your soundtrack back then, it's still out there on Amazon. Buying through here helps us a little and pays for the odd treat for the cats.
