Jackie Gleason Makes His Only Appearance | Carson Tonight Show

Original Airdate: 10/18/1985
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[@hunter999888]

This is one of the very few reasons why the internet is great. To just get to see this in 2023, and to pick it up and laugh at it and it feel so contemporary. To see the world through Carson really was something to have.

[@stevehislop]

Totally agree.

[@TheLittletroyboy]

Thank God that we can still view these videos, because everything today is such trash.

[@MrBiscotti2011]

You said it brother!

[@vincentanguoni8938]

Ditto on that!

[@KK-qc5ct]

I bought the set (4 decades) of tonight show w/ Johnny the other day! I fell to sleep with Johnny and later David Letterman in my youth and looking forward to reliving that special tim

[@bigdaddyl-rob7445]

Jackie Gleason is one of the greatest complete entertainers of all time!!! Both he and Art Carney were pure magic together!

[@rickadelman2263]

Gleason and Carney were arguably the funniest comedy team in history. Yet Gleason was also an extraordinary actor. Just check out Requiem for a Heavyweight. Stunning. And then there's Carson. Unmatched. Never to be equaled

[@mikeg6666]

All these guys were class acts and real entertainers , unlike the lame actors nowadays!

[@michaelmeurer5801]

Hello ball…, 11:43 pm

[@sailingstpommedeterre4905]

The GREATEST.

[@bigdaddyl-rob7445]

@@rickadelman2263 AMEN!

[@ralphholiman7401]

I'm 65 years old, and young people today just can't imagine what a big part of our lives Jackie Gleason was when we were growing up. And I still love him in Smokey and the Bandit the most!

[@kathydieting4583]

Hello, How are you doing today?

[@davidhemstreet3026]

Thats a big 10-4 !

[@vincentanguoni8938]

I understand...but....drop the "young people today business" I'm seven years your senior!!!!! The world is not going to hell! It's our world that's fading.....and it is not easy...I have lost the only two true friends I ever had in this life!!!!!

[@vincentanguoni8938]

And one was my mother!!!!!! It still hurts!!!!!

[@victorblock3421]

"there's just no way you can be from my loins"

[@appolop8273]

Those were definitely the good old days. No one can replace TV of the 60's, 70's, and 80's, what an era it was.

[@raygordonteacheschess5501]

Yeah: segregation, vietnam, oil embargo, hostage crisis, constant threat of nukes...it wasn't boring!

[@thisisrob8750]

They were talking about TV not the state of the world. Also the 80s were the greatest time is the history of the US. Problems of course but an epic time to be alive none the less.@@raygordonteacheschess5501

[@lukespector5550]

Don't worry about the negative bullshit comment below, my friend. I'm with you. Entertainment packed a hell of a punch once upon a time.

[@kevinlewis808]

@@lukespector5550 except it isnt bullshit. Absolutely every generation shits on the one that comes after it.

[@robertpolnicky7702]

Being 66 now I pretty much agree. 5:12 but I'll admit the 60s had problems. But I can see parallels from corruption in the 60s and today's problems.

[@todd3563]

The way he appreciated the audience was pure class.

[@morbius109]

You could just look at Jackie Gleason and tell the man had incredible class, charm, and gravitas. Truly, he was representative of a generation of actors and entertainers that will be often imitated, but never duplicated. Men like him and Johnny were truly one of a kind.

[@valeriekitover7363]

Cannot agree more!

[@kevinbradford2262]

The greatest

[@scottmoore1614]

I was lucky enough to grow up in the 70s when there were still some of these legends around. It’s sad to say but everyone around today is just second rate.

[@threetreasures7698]

Yes, he was talented. His portrayal of a red-necked sheriff on the Smokey and the bandit. Of course, The Honeymooners was phenomenal. And another movie, the title of which I cannot recall. He was also an unabashed sexist and racist. I learned this from one of his cast mates (female) and someone who worked with him on a film project.

[@j.p.8304]

Agreed, real pros here.

[@OldSoulJer]

Jackie Gleason was known as “The Great One” for a reason. His legendary pairing with the phenomenally talented Art Carney was a match made in heaven. Enough said

[@SweetChicagoGator]

Absolutely correct ! 😍 Love Art Carney in the movie with the ginger cat !

[@OldSoulJer]

@@SweetChicagoGator Oh yeah, 1974’s Harry & Tonto

[@danielfishbein1925]

@@SweetChicagoGator pp😊

[@danielfishbein1925]

Net worth jack b

[@vincentanguoni8938]

They were incredible together!!! I grew up watching the Honeymooners in the late fifties., reruns,..then! It is now politically incorrect!!!

[@daryljay7057]

What can you say? Look at the guy! He's beautiful! No shorts, cargo pants, sweat suits or hoodies. The guy is dressed to the nines! Such class, such style! God, I loved these guys! Razor sharp in every way!

[@thomasshort1784]

@daryljay7057 I'm 40 and, while I'm usually a T-shirt, jeans and boots kind of guy, when the occasion calls for it, I'm a true believer in doing the same (that is, suit, necktie, cufflinks, dress shoes, etc.) so, I can relate to that (in fact, I've been known to CHOOSE doing so when I've been under no obligation to, otherwise).

[@matthewtreacy6994]

Of course he is! New York Irish.

[@daryljay7057]

@@thomasshort1784 Oh yeah, me too. I'm a boots & jeans guy myself. Like you, I clean up pretty good too.. The only ties I wear are bolos & string ties, shirts with snaps, but any guy can appreciate a well dressed man no matter the style. Gleason was a classy guy, no doubt! I'm old, I watched his shows years ago. He was so big he was able to tell the network where the show would be broadcast. Miami! That was serious power in those days!

[@danapuopolo8397]

And he bows to the audience when he leaves.

[@txpipes61]

He was indeed a classy guy - only the best for the "Great One!"

[@thinman8621]

2024 and I'm watching two guys who long ago left the planet. They were amazing then and still are today.

[@johnburns6422]

Thank God for KZbin i,m an old man there,s no movie/ film made today i would want see .

[@JimmyPayne-r8o]

❤km yuh à ​@@johnburns6422

[@gaylahuckaby1]

I enjoy these shows so much.... classic

[@jec1ny]

Gleason was pure class. And he was always impeccably dressed.

[@lynnmcculloch-m4h]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@lynnmcculloch-m4h]

How sweet it is !

[@jeffreynolt1710]

What a great interview. So very humble and so versatile. Just don't make em like this anymore. And Carson? Such a privilege to grow up watching and appreciating him.

[@SSNESS]

He would’ve been his best regular guest

[@cherylcallahan5402]

@@SSNESS i.agree

[@illbarry]

@@SSNESS Yes. Unfortunately travel isn't like it is today. Gleason was a NY/Miami guy, and outside of the first few years Carson was filmed in Burbank Cali.

[@carolusBA333]

Drunk

[@superbrownbrown]

*My Grandfather was a tool salesman and was in a hotel in Manhattan for a convention sometime in the 1960s. He was leaving the convention to go home, got in the elevator, and there was Jackie Gleason. My Grandfather recognized him immediately, and told him that he and his wife were big fans of him and his work, calling him "Mr. Gleason". Gleason shook his hand and said, "Thanks, Pal. That really means a lot to me... and it's Jackie. " They chatted for a few moments until the elevator got to the main floor/lobby. They walked out together and my Grandfather shook Gleason's hand again and said, "It was great meeting you." Gleason looked at him before releasing the handshake, put his left hand on my Grandfather's right shoulder, and said, "Well wait a minute, Pal. I got a few minutes. Come have a drink." My Grandfather told him, "Thanks, but I can't. I got to get home. My wife's expecting me." So Gleason said, "I thought you said she's a big fan?" My Grandfather looked at him and said, "Not that big a fan." Gleason laughed and said, "I understand, Pal. Nice meeting you." Years later my Father told me that my Grandfather regretted not having that drink with Gleason, because my Grandmother was annoyed with the time he got home anyway.* 😂😂😂

[@chriswilgus4752]

I would have had the drink.the wifey would have just be upset. Too bad,so sad.

[@leonarddmills2073]

My O

[@sjd7188]

He was gonna get in trouble no matter what time he got home…have the drink!

[@antrimlariot2386]

What a rotten story. Jeez. Thanks for that.

[@spottss]

Your grandfather screwed up and insulted My Gleason all at once.

[@patfiddles]

Jackie Gleason is truly The Great One. A great conversationalist and his one-liners are hysterical.

[@AlvinUselton]

Carson was the only show that was watched and enjoyed by every age group;every demographic; every race;from rich to poor and everyone in between!! He was Amazing and talented; he was loved respected and missed one of kind

[@brennanthabault1351]

Watching Johnny Carson clips reminds me of my Nana

[@catpaladin1]

I watched him when I was in High School 😂

[@michaelv.3284]

This is TV americana at its peak. Two of the most talented, funniest, classiest and best ever at their jobs getting together. You will never see something like this again ever.

[@vincentanguoni8938]

Ditto on that!

[@scottmoore1614]

Sad but true.

[@mrfrank4583]

So true!!!!

[@davidshamiri1448]

Let me guess youre 70 years old.

[@kp0121]

Same Ole story...the old farts said the same thing to you when you were a kid.

[@williamwhite2113]

Jackie was a legend. It was more than The Honeymooners, it was his acting, his comedic timing, and how he lived life. Johnny could do interviews but in this case he led with questions and gave Jackie the floor and it went from there. Hard to believe this was the only time Jackie was on Johnny's show. RIP to both these great men.

[@noydb2148]

His comedy didn't transfer to the kids born in the '60s or after. Neither did Fred Flintstone. The loud mouth jerk husband, offering to send his wife to the moon, It's just weird. I wouldn't say it's wrong, because it wasn't wrong for the time. Where you can go back and see in the '50s '60s and '70s how totally funny it was to see the actor pretending to be drunk running over mailboxes and smashing his car. That kind of comedy doesn't translate. I was pleased in looking at the comments from his contemporaries, the Jackie Gleason was not the a-hole I thought he was. It turns out he was a pretty decent guy

[@Don-lf9ku]

@@noydb2148 i was born in 62, i loved Jackie. The whole family watched the honeymooners all the time. And if that wasn't enough smoky and the bandit sealed the deal. And we grew up watching the Flint stones.The kids today might not get it but we damn sure date in the sixties.

[@MarkHarrison733]

Gleason was talentless.

[@williamwhite2113]

Had more talent than you

[@MarkHarrison733]

@@williamwhite2113 He was just an unfunny racist alcoholic who supported Nixon, Reagan and the Vietnam War.

[@63bplumb]

Maybe it's because I'm a bit low with all the bad news that's in the world right now but seeing this brought tears to my eyes particularly when he left to that music. They're all gone ALL the good ones and of course Jackie the GREAT one!

[@sharlagardner]

The music at the end really got to me as well. 🎶🎵❤️

[@yoojin-oi8ij]

Me too brother,... you're not alone.

[@catsforhire9116]

Gone in body but not in spirit!

[@AlwaysAwesome001]

Drama much? 🙄

[@AlwaysAwesome001]

​@P RH You are correct. ✅

[@notmyworld44]

"Talent is a gift from God." God and I thank you, Jackie.

[@CathleenMorris-p8o]

The way he appreciated the audience was pure class.. Two absolute legends! I’m so glad this footage still exists.

[@gxk]

That was wonderful. What a pleasure. Just how two men talk. No BS. No drama. No ego. Just tell it like it is. How sweet it is. RIP Jack! I'll see you around.

[@chrisirving1239]

Oh what a wonderful statement. Thank you!

[@krwd]

Yes, today everyone is looking down their nose at the host back then they worked and respected each other and worked like a team seemed to anyway

[@tylermcnally8232]

LOL no you wont.

[@vince1638]

Im 65 and have wonderful memories of watching the Jackie Gleason Show with my Father in the mood 60s. Dad was a WW2 combat vet and rarely laughed but Jackie brought him to tears of joy. Im forever in debt Jackie. How sweet it was.

[@southerncross3638]

I'm 67 and same here.

[@yowzephyr]

As you probably know Jackie was called "The Great One." He said he had no problem with being called that.

[@vince1638]

@@hollandsemum1 Actually MID!

[@CarolynGagliarducci]

I watch The Honeymooners for many years.❤

[@notmyworld44]

I'm nearly 80 and I share those wonderful memories with you, Vince.

[@DG-px9dl]

Jackie and Johnny on the same show together - two of the GREATEST entertainers of all time.

[@SSNESS]

He should’ve been a regular

[@tonynish2524]

:')

[@jonnywishbone17]

"Jack" and "John" :)

[@gxk]

Agreed!

[@dgcmusi]

Absolutely agree with you…

[@Jimmyjackfruit]

Burt Reynolds, Sally Fields, Jerry Reed and Jackie Gleason what a great group of actors for the 70s and 80s. They are truely missed.

[@maxdingotm]

Burt and Sally and Jerry were NOT in Gleason's class- they were talented but NOT EVEN CLOSE

[@Carlos-r5n2b]

Burt was supposed to have another scene with Gleason. Burt said after the one restaurant scene he said he wasn't worthy of doing another scene Jackie. He made Burt look like an amateur to Burt

[@mikeabbasi4551]

@@Jimmyjackfruit We had an embarrasment of riches back then, and didn't even know it

[@davino108]

​@@maxdingotmno one wasn't Jackie Gleason's class

[@heresthedeal4843]

This was remarkable. He's the genuine article exuding class and gratitude.

[@stellarocquie7957]

It's so hard to appreciate Mr. Gleason's charm and humility until you see him just being himself. What a sensational interview. Johnny wanted to get the best one-time opportunity to showcase Mr. Gleason, and he succeeded with flying colors. Rest easy to both Gentlemen, and, of course, to Ed, as well.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

Hard? LMAO

[@stellarocquie7957]

@@BAKER22-l4u I guess you didn't understand my comment. Oh well.

[@stellarocquie7957]

@@matthewberkin5924 Thank you!

[@robfmas]

That clip about the mandolin players had me rolling😂

[@cw8434]

I wonder if Ed ever got to have a drink with Jackie before they passed? What a pair of legends!

[@kjblackhawk]

You can tell that Johnny admires him greatly. Loved the Honeymooners! Gleason was a genius!

[@Resmith18SR]

Carson and Gleason, two absolute legends who really had unbelievable lives.

[@gregwatson8219]

Eneratainers yes. But both men committed Adultry numerous times. Never meet your heroes.

[@78tag]

@@gregwatson8219 I don't know what you are comparing their lives to but they would be angles in today's culture.

[@WS3RD]

@@78tag Or maybe angels.

[@scottallyn2628]

Xhamster teenagers breasts

[@Godfather9814]

Two absolute legends! I’m so glad this footage still exists

[@barbielockett5839]

I mis Johnnnny!! And Jackie Gleason...Gone are the Greats!!!❤🙏❤️

[@ca9495]

Now that ladies and gentlemen, is a HOLLYWOOD LEGEND!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Robert-ws3mk]

And Always Will be, Rip Great One !

[@markjackson6431]

you mean the same legend who almost yanked Fred Flintstone off the air? so glad people told him otherwise

[@lilajagears8317]

@@markjackson6431 Nobody cares.

[@paulgentile1024]

Majority of comedians now have no class.. and more importantly they ain't funny

[@michaelchapman4955]

INDEED!!!!!!!!!!!! From Brooklyn & Globally !!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MrBrady505]

Jackie was a national treasure.

[@joeybonin7691]

He'll always be to my generation.

[@markfriedmann1919]

Brings a tear to my eye thinking of how much joy and laughter this man brought to my life. Thank you. Thank you Jackie. God Bless You

[@BAKER22-l4u]

A tear? LMAO

[@elissel]

" A tear to my eye, and a lump to my throat.." Fixed it for ya, LOL. 😅😂😂😉

[@william21990]

Thought the same thing

[@cw8434]

The man is 1 of a kind, there will never be another like him. What a remarkable time when evening talk shows had substance and clean humor, look at what we have today... sad

[@charlesoconnor2953]

@@elissel same here.

[@WilliamWyckoff-of2ku]

I started the 1st grade in 54. I grew up watching Jackie Gleason and the honey mooners that was exceptionally a great show . And still is in my book

[@seasparrow7427]

A brilliant icon of his time. There will never be anyone as classy as him ever again. The man was a true actor and a perfect representation of the early classic acts that perfected the entertainment industry that we see today.

[@jcruisioso5975]

Owns the room. Commands respect . How many ways can I put it. Charisma in one human. Legend!

[@audrasitarek9113]

Total legend

[@rexd.burgess8730]

"Own's the room" Spot on J!

[@J3MOdh3NOWX3S]

2. Apparently you can put it 2 ways.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

You DON'T "command" RESPECT, you "EARN" it

[@jimjones1043]

@@audrasitarek9113 exactly.....

[@leonmaliniak]

This interview shows once again why Carson was and still is the greatest talk show host of all time...the role model for all other TV hosts and stand up comics. Besides his unlimited and varied comedic genius, he was the absolutely best interviewer of anyone on any talk show or any news media host, past present or future. Great timing, great continuous and meaningful topical flow and such a natural sounding and looking interaction. Rest in peace Johnny...you are the greatest of all time

[@heyjoejp]

I bartend in the style of Johnny Carson. It’s given me decades of regulars at my bar

[@DerBingle1]

I don't even know who the late night guys are now, except for the fact that they're always changing them. Carson did it forever.

[@gregwatson8219]

Great entertainer but not offstage. Offstage. he could been more humble like JAY LENO!

[@Rockineagle84]

@@gregwatson8219 Leno is a hack

[@illbarry]

@@gregwatson8219 None of us knew him offstage, what we saw we liked.

[@JAY-wb2fv]

This was one of Carson's best interviews. Gleason was a performer extraordinaire. Gleason's observation many comedians make great actors, but few actors make good comedians is 100% true. All you youngsters, watch the Honeymooners. The father of TV sit coms.

[@1974dormouse]

I agree. The only other Carson episode that was better was the famous one with Dean Martin, Bob Hope, and George Gobel.

[@Primus54]

@@1974dormouse Absolutely hilarious episode, especially Dean dropping his cigarette ashes in Gobel’s drink when he wasn’t looking.

[@jazzmanchgo]

"Nothing in Common" ended up being one of his greatest latter-day dramatic peformances, too. He had "it" until the end.

[@alexrivera1161]

Robin Williams is a good example.

[@jeffneis553]

He was a wonderful genius, I wrote him for an autographed picture never thinking I would get it and he signed it and sent it right to me. He was the one and only and there will never be another Jackie Gleason he is missed, RIP Jackie you were the greatest.

[@leodegas7731]

God, I haven't thought about Jackie Gleason in 30 or 40 years and to watch this interview almost brought tears to my eyes. I sooo loved this guy. To me he was like the NASA space program or Evel Knievel; he was something you had to watch on TV. I don't think I missed anything he did on television. He was a big part of my childhood and probably is the reason I love life. His characters and tv show were about loving life to the fullest; even if the situations were against you. Thank you for posting this. I miss all three of these greats. Edit: I know he wasn't perfect, but no man is. But what he contributed to the world to make people laugh and forget about their troubles if only for a while, is truly a gift. Imho

[@Mark-eu4di]

Well said! Great memories as a child!

[@steveprudell9976]

Absolutely Love J.Gleason

[@tytits]

Those couple of people in the crowd that laughed when Jackie said it's not just talent, you gotta have luck, doesn't get that he wasn't joking there. So many people had talent that never got noticed or had luck. So he's absolutely right when he says that.

[@spicyirwin5835]

Plus handle fame! Hollywood can do u or u can do HOLLYWOOD. I couldnt!

[@theonecounttheonecount8477]

There's no such thing as luck. Like anyone famous, he had a lot of help on the way up. I'm sure people thought I shot to fame because of luck. I planned my life from the time I was a toddler, and I prayed a lot. I turned things down if they were ungodly. I had raw talent and worked my fingers to the bone to get where I was. I was well respected and born with a lot of talent in the arts. I went after my dreams and tackled them!

[@illbarry]

@@theonecounttheonecount8477 The luck is getting noticed, have people who believe in you, and also finding an audience.

[@TheTerrypcurtin]

Almost famous. I was one of those in the music business. One day I had a major label recording contract. A year later it was over. I am grateful to have been close. Like sports. Some of the greatest never see the big show. Luck is true but you have to be there waiting for the opportunity.

[@sbalger]

​@@theonecounttheonecount8477 wait who are you?

[@trentaccid2177]

Lets give Doc Severson and the band a great thankyou for the most perfect music introduction for Jackie for his appearence here. It will always be Jackie's Sound.

[@cw8434]

exactly, I wonder how Doc is doing these days?

[@richardclay]

The Big Band era, fantastic, wonderful music...

[@Lampshade51]

An emotional moment when Gleason exited to "Melancholy Serenade". You knew that was his final bow.

[@nancydillon5333]

Mmm, boy, did I need to find this tonight (March 7, 2023). I'm pushing 70 this end of May and have loved, loved, loved Jackie Gleason's talent, heart, and soul for as long as I can remember. Carson brought out Gleason's magic and made it shine and though I am in my darkest time, I laughed really hard, actually slapped my thigh, and felt a wave of delightful relief. Bless Jackie Gleason's enduring magic, truly THE Great One.

[@7wolfman78]

I hope you're well 🙂

[@PaulaSue1970]

Nancy, I'm 70 too. (this past January) It's sure sobering! Bad health along with turning 70 is rough. I've always loved Jackie Gleason. I probably had a crush on him! I've got a couple of his beautiful albums. Wonderful music to relax by and reminds me of a bygone age. Anyway, if you can, could you let us know you're doing ok? If you need prayer, I'll be more than happy to put you in my prayers.

[@whiskeymonk4085]

Right with ya old boy. See you on the other side when we get there.

[@user-z6p4c]

@@PaulaSue1970 I remember seeing this when it originally aired. I was laughing so hard I woke my wife up. she started laughing right along when she realized what she was seeing which Honestly has been a really good source of happiness for me ever since I lost my wife so many years ago i was married for 42years I was 24 and she was 20. She got cancer in 2020 I was totally lost without her. She took a major hit the treatment was horrible for her. I could do nothing to change any thing so I felt helpless I miss her everyday. Mothers are the glue that holds everyone together.. it broke me to pieces so seeing comments like this makes me smile. I could use a friend and the prayers to

[@PaulaSue1970]

@@user-z6p4c I'm so sorry to hear about your wife. My prayers are certainly with you.

[@christineblaszczyk1602]

I was so sad when we lost him. What a talented man who gave us so much laughter and such a great actor.

[@user-z6p4c]

I remember seeing this when it originally aired. I was laughing so hard I woke my wife up. she started laughing right along when she realized what she was seeing which Honestly has been a really good source of happiness for me ever since I lost my wife so many years ago i was married for 42years I was 24 and she was 20. She got cancer in 2020 I was totally lost without her. She took a major hit the treatment was horrible for her. I could do nothing to change any thing so I felt helpless I miss her everyday. Mothers are the glue that holds everyone together.. it broke me to pieces so seeing comments like this makes me smile.

[@BledaDiaz]

Jackie Gleason gotta be the best dresser ever!! Always looks sharp. Classy and gentle man.

[@mash2481]

The Honeymooners is STILL one of the funniest shows on television. Watch it every Sunday night.

[@DarthSaggezza]

What platform do you watch the honeymooners on? I would like to know. I love that show as well.

[@kylethedalek]

Give me an example of how funny it is? I’ve never seen it.

[@oldmoviesinbwwithsubtitles3501]

@@DarthSaggezza It’s on Decades tv. And Metv

[@stephenkehl7158]

I worked for a TV station, a network affiliate, not an independent station that had to scrape the bottom of the barrel to find programming. We ran reruns of The Honeymooners five days s week, and it always won its timeslot. We had to start the cycle over again after just eight weeks, but people kept watching.

[@robc.5745]

On New Years day in NYC channel 11 has a marathon of the Honeymooners every year, Classics all.

[@peterwilson2591]

Gleason's last major appearance, passing away less than two years later. Carson seemed to know that he was ill and didn't have much time left, so did a wonderful, knowledgeable and respectful interview. This is the best version with the original play-on and play-off music ("You're My Greatest Love" and "Melancholy Serenade"). Gleason making his final exit to his theme "Melancholy Serenade" brought tears to my eyes.

[@lencavallaro6781]

Spot on. He was so well prepared. Even though he was a big fan, he made sure to do his homework. Sign of great respect.

[@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238]

Much respect to you for recognizing the Titles of the Music...just one more layer of Depth to The Gleason and Carson Era...Real Class , Real Talent, and Always Full of Real Star Power that you can't help but watch, and will always remember. ( Melancholy Serenade, just breaks me down Everytime!)

[@immortaltyger1569]

Thanks for that background info, especially the part about his last major appearance. I grew up watching Honeymooner reruns and also watching his later variety show with the June Taylor dancers and all of the sketches and music on that show.

[@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists]

Thank you for the context, Peter. Your comment belongs at the top of the page.

[@illbarry]

I didn't realize it was his last major appearance, and honestly he didn't seem ill at all. Pure class and like another said always dressed impeccable complete with the flower on the lapel. A pros pro.

[@gamernorcal]

The Tonight Show band not missing a beat with the Honeymooners Theme! Just Perfect! What a talent all those musicians were.

[@gfriedman99]

Doc Severenson played it perfectly. Jackie gave him a nice hand.

[@65strad]

A bad ass band by ANY standard

[@jamescox8402]

I never ever heard my dad laugh as hard for anyone like the great Jackie Gleason. He was that good every time.

[@Carburetedofficial]

This era of late night talk show is pure gold, no politics, no opinions, just talk, and Jackie Gleason is one of the classiest and most incredible actors, also a master billiard table shooter

[@daviddoyle8956]

Jay Leno brought that back.

[@arcanondrum6543]

Some of the best political jokes came from Carson. Johnny even thanked Dan Quayle during his monologue "for making my last week on the air so productive."

[@capecodfortrumpbill7372]

The beauty in watching this again ( I remember seeing it live as a younger man) is how humble and respectful Carson is. Normally he played straight man who lobbed soft balls and set ups for other comics. Not so here. Johnny gave Gleason the stage. An act of pure admiration.

[@4orrcountry]

When Jackie exits at the end, Doc Severinsen and the band sent him off with the fullest, most robust playing of "Melancholy Serenade" I've ever heard. The Great One deserved every bit of it.

[@RaysLaughsAndLyrics]

The Flintstones wouldn't exist without the genius and success of The Honeymooners . Gleason and Carson together..amazing entertainment. The combined generosity of the two is unmatched.

[@pamelavarilone2614]

Jackie Gleason was absolutely brilliant in, "Gigot," where if memory serves, his character had no dialogue. All of Gleason's character was developed through his incredible emotive acting. Delivered a sucker-punch to the heart. I realized his incredible talent, and how much he was under-utilzed in front of the camera. Thank you, Mr. Gleason.

[@murielstewart8597]

That was the role that got me. I was little and remembered GIGOT, And I still remember that role. He was an excellent actor. ❤

[@jarrodbutts716]

Mr. Gleason was a force. Brilliant actor. Master of the adlib. Preternaturally perceptive. Truly The Great One.

[@dandy_griffith]

He would’ve been a tremendous silent film actor.

[@thomasleary2814]

Oh how right you are! Have to look that up again. Haven’t seen it in years. And directed by Gene Kelly!

[@atreb56]

Loved Gigot. Mr. Gleason was brilliant in that role ❤

[@NoName-ge6wc]

Two icons. One greater than the other. Never too be duplicated. Rip both.

[@KJ-xc6qs]

Jackie Gleason had an abundance of talent and class. I never tire watching the Honeymooners for the millionth time.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

WHY

[@jefolson6989]

So interesting . Several people have comment that Gleason had "class". I see the opposite. I have some sort of mental block with Gleason ( and Sinatra and a few others from that era. I must associate them with bad childhood memories or something).

[@meijer78]

The Great One and The King of Late Night!! How sweet it is!!

[@gib59er56]

Jackie Gleason. A man who did it all. In his time, actors were able to sing, act, dance, and were multi-talented. Jackie was a little different. His genius was comedy. His timing was perfect. He needed very little ,if any rehearsal. When you saw him on film, you felt the weight of his presence. A giant among men. Mr. Gleason, you are forever remembered. Thank you sir.

[@amandajstar]

His self-composed theme music for The Honeymooners is grand.

[@AttilatheNun-xv6kc]

And I was struck by the way he didn't like to rehearse too much. He felt there should be some spontaneity and a little bit of rough-round-the-edges energy in the final performance. He used to tell the other cast members on The Honeymooners not to worry if they missed a cue or fluffed a line, because people in real life don't have perfectly coordinated and synchronized conversation.

[@marioncobaretti2280]

You can see how much Johnny admires him

[@rem1762]

You can tell by the tremendous respect of Johnny towards Mr Gleason, that man is truly a legend. How he can go from the Honeymooners to a great role in the Hustler, speaks to that.

[@shackdaddy7106]

You only need one word to describe Jackie Gleason. Genius. The 39 honeymooner episodes that were made during the 1955.-56 season. Are some of the greatest comedies of all time. And as a dramatic actor. In the Hustler and Requiem for a Heavyweight which also starred Mickey Rooney and Anthony Quinn are two of the best dramatic performance as you will ever see. And his instrumental albums are classic great to relax to. And as background music with your favorite person at dinner.

[@jeffthebracketman]

NORTON: Hey Ralph, you mind if I smoke? RALPH: I don't care if ya burn...

[@vincentanguoni8938]

Ditto on that amigo!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jeffthebracketman]

And let’s not forget that in the film The Hustler, Willie Mosconi was brought in to coach Paul Newman, but Gleason performed his own shots…

[@herecomesforego1787]

@@jeffthebracketman get up there, get up there 😅 - my absolute favorite episode of the absolute best comedy program in tv history

[@jeffthebracketman]

@@herecomesforego1787 Great choice! I love that one too, but i’d have to put into the same category better living through TV (the helpful housewife, happy handy), the golfer, and the best half hour of television in my humble opinion ever, a matter of record (when the mother-in-law comes over and insults, Ralph and he calls her a blabbermouth)

[@curtisc6768]

There was more talent on that stage then in all of hollywood today!

[@daviddoyle8956]

What about Depp, Cage, Samuel L Jackson, Naomi Watts. etc but if your talking the last 10 or so years. I can se that to many over paid actors. Hell I can do better than most of them. Well Nicholson had that Dapper mannerism about him as well.

[@JosephPerrotta-db9xp]

​@@daviddoyle8956Naomi Watts?

[@BigLebowski324]

@@daviddoyle8956yes, far more talented than those.

[@sandralindsay9264]

Absolutely GREAT men❤🎉

[@sandralindsay9264]

???

[@richardturocy8022]

Jackie packed 150 years into his 71 years! They just do not make them like him anymore....he with Steve Allen is one of the most talented comedians, serious actor, and orchestra leader. His "Music for Lovers Only" is a classic. Late night TV unwatchable today, thank God we can go back and enjoy such true Giants as Jackie and Johnny.

[@swami1]

When Johnny and Ed give you a standing ovation, THAT’S respect.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

NO! That's "FOOLISH"

[@007gunlogo]

​@BBAKER22 "foolish" in quotes?

[@legotimefuntime5438]

I’m 33 and wish I can tell Jackie Gleason how much he meant to me and bringing me great joy. He’s a lost work of art.

[@gwenratcliffe3815]

Both Jackie Gleason and Art Carney, two of my favorite comedians💖💖. One need say no more about two of the greatest legends of entertainment history. Their names alone conjure instant recognition.

[@tdtvkc1]

Jackie Gleason could get more laughs with a look than most comedians get in a hour of standup. He truly was "The Great One", nobody like him anymore. 😀☮❤

[@BAKER22-l4u]

FOOLISH

[@SucessKey]

Jackie sacrificed himself for us with his tremendous talent. An extraordinaire natural skill seen so rarely. "How sweet it is."J. Gleason, how treasured you were and remain today.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

Sacrificed himself? LMAO RIDICULOUS

[@theriddler8695]

The belly laugh by Ed McMahon when The Great One says " I'm not advocating that everybody should drink..it just worked for me." was classic!!!

[@COACHINHBALL]

When I was a kid staying with my grandparents on Saturday night it was always The Great One... live from the sun and fun capital of the world Miami Beach.

[@MercedesMike-my1jg]

Only if he knew his show is still wanted 74 years later

[@robertberryhill4033]

Jackie was the best. I started watching the Honeymooners when I was 6 years old and I'm 70 now and still love watching them. True comedy Jackie, Art, Albany and Joyce

[@jmason2838]

It's 'Audrey' Meadows ...Sheila Macrae was also in the cast for a time as Ralph's wife .. ..I liked her the most as Alice..

[@abef.9085]

Ya,Norton was Funny as well.

[@felixfischer312]

These were good old days true actors who made great movies and Jonny was best !

[@DarthSaggezza]

Hollywood just doesn’t make people like this anymore. Jackie Gleason and Johnny Carson. Carson was king of late night and if you were anything of anybody you were on his show. If you were a comedian it was a make or break it moment if you could make Johnny Carson laugh. Because Johnny Carson was from “Middle America” and if you could make Johnny laugh, middle America would laugh and you were an instant hit, A millionaire overnight-basically. What made Johnny Carson stand out on his Tonight Show was the show was not about Carson, but it was about his guest. He let the guest shine while he played background. Johnny shined in the monologue and the first act of the show and then it was the stars moving forward. Today’s tonight show host I do like some of them but all of them is all about the show is mine and they’re going to make sure everybody knows it. Instead of letting the guest and the stars shine first. That’s my take on Johnny. Jackie Gleason was a masterpiece in a bygone era that will never come again. He is a legend in my eyes. I watched a 60 minute interview on him in the mid-80s right before he passed away and it was such an eye-opener for me on the way his philosophy was on life. He was carefree for him. He did it his way. What a brilliant actor.

[@gryper1690]

What a likable guy. And great actor. Phenomenal actor. He passed away less than two years after this appearance.

[@stellertonybeller1972]

lung cancer ... think i counted 3 cigarettes' in this interview .. but he loved to drink and smoke and he loved life .......

[@bernecomp]

I just read the condensed version of his life story on Wikipedia, and I am more impressed than ever by this amazing man. A true rags to riches story full of tragedy and triumph.

[@choppo123]

Two legends… Jackie was very generous the way he complimented Art Carney and others. ❤

[@travisn2875]

Such a classy humble and talented actor. A very hard childhood and he never forgot his roots.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

Most people DON'T

[@greyjay9202]

There are some great stories about Jackie Gleason and Toots Shor. They decided to step out in front of Toots' restaurant, and run around the block in opposite directions, and meet up again at the front door. Who would win the race? But as soon as Toots huffed and puffed out of sight, Jackie flagged down a taxi, and took it around the block. Classic!

[@TheVagolfer]

There two men represent what television was from the 50's to the 80's. I grew up with both of them, and sadly, those days are gone forever.

[@lilajagears8317]

The nightly shows that are on now are nothing but hard left anti--American garbage.

[@warrenoleary2168]

I know what you mean but with media technology; they will entertain future generations !

[@jeffneis553]

Two words for Jackie, GENIUS AND CLASS !!. RIP Jackie.

[@kdm71291]

That was special….and with Doc and the band playing the appropriate intro and out to music….perfect!

[@teresawalker5676]

A superb legend. He and Phil Silvers, my all time favorites. Classic real entertainers, comedy giants, but first, they were gentlemen.

[@Paulco67]

Phil Silvers being chased by Jonathan Winters who is beaten by the gas station owners in “Mad, Mad, Mad World” is pure comic gold

[@BAKER22-l4u]

Did you know him off stage?

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@Wixom2200]

@@Paulco67 HILARIOUS X 100000🤣🤣🤣

[@JohnMoyerHypnosis]

Such class. Celebrities were a rare and different breed back then and knew how to deliver for the audiences and fans that appreciated them.

[@gabevachon326]

Kudos to Johnny for doing his homework,keeping up the pace and asking really good questions

[@bigcat618]

Thanks one of the first things I thought too. Even Gleason commented on it.

[@BAKER22-l4u]

LMAO

[@chadmatheny51]

Well before the days of Google, too. When information required legwork.

[@sclerismockrey8506]

i remember seeing this as it aired. i was a senior in high school, and a superfan of both gleason and carson, and even then i understood what a moment it was. it is wonderful to see it again, thank you.

[@skeezix8156]

My grandparents, my parents and I all loved this guy. Not a lot of entertainers you can say that about.

[@minecraftbuilder3110]

This makes me want to go watch any and all Jackie Gleason shows and movies again. He and Johnny were one of a kind. I miss them both.

[@chrisirving1239]

We need them both! Great men

[@PorkChopJones]

Jackie Gleason the true king of comedy that could make you laugh, then cry, then laugh again.... Thank you for all the joy and laughter you have given us... god bless you.

[@thebiffer100]

Jackie was a man's man! Just look at this remarkable interview, he only touches the tip of the iceberg with his endless talent and accomplishments. What memorable moments he gave me growing up. All I can say is "BABY, YOU'RE THE GREATEST"

[@BAKER22-l4u]

A man's man? LMAO

[@lindaweges8624]

Gleason and Carson were such a class act.They are missed!

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@larrybliss8330]

I'm so glad it I found this. Gleason's timing and reactions were pitch perfect, and Johnny did his usual fine job with the questions. And at the end Gleason attributed his talent to God. We need more like him.

[@tagnut1952]

Loved the Jackie Gleason show on Saturday nights. It always ended with Crazy Googenheim at the bar cutting up with Joe, then he'd tell Mr. Dunahee to stick a nickel on #14 and then he became Frank Fontaine. Man what a voice he had. And Joe just leaned on the bar and smiled the whole time. Great memories. Hard to believe he died just a year an a half later from appearing on Carson. RIP to two of TV's greatest legends.

[@zokitchvlog]

Great show 🎉

[@rogerfournier3284]

Jackie Gleason is the “icing on the cake” of being a gentleman. Such a great actor in history.

[@Inkblot67]

Every night after bedtime, I’d sneak down the hallway and plant myself behind my dads high backed easy chair, the perfect hiding place, and watch Johnny Carson. My parents would talk back and forth about the guests, about Johnny, about their day and so on. I loved it. I loved hearing them laugh and relax after a long day at work and I loved Johnny! When the show was just about to end I’d stealthily tip toe back into my room, leap into my bed and pull the covers up and act like I’d been there the whole time. One morning I just couldn’t get out of bed because I was so tired. Mom came in and harassed me until I finally got up. She said that if this continued to happen in the morning she and dad would no longer allow my “secret” Johnny Carson viewing from behind the high backed easy chair every night. 😐

[@murielstewart8597]

....whoops !😮

[@elissel]

Bwaahaha... Parents just know, kid!

[@palmereldrich]

ME too Different but essentially same Watching Johnny covertly🎉❤

[@brendarocheck3988]

Thanks for the memories.

[@cherilynjenkins479]

Oh wow!!! Love him. I was born after he passed on but I'm actually watching the Honeymooners right now. Timeless. Genius how he created something that every generation will love long after he was gone.

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@lulumoon6942]

I enjoyed watching him dance, he was really light on his feet. 👍 And loved his credit to God for his talent! 🙏

[@BobSmith-ve8sw]

My parents had all of the records he and his orchestra made. Watched his show "live, from Miami Beach." Such a marvelous talent he was!

[@hypolyxa7207]

"Music for Lovers Only" is a great album

[@kellywright540]

Man, Live From Miami Beach was a buzz word for us kids to sit down and watch TV with our parents. This was back in the late 60's, like a million years ago...

[@Primus54]

Jackie Gleason’s “American Scene Magazine”, live from Miami Beach. Must watch TV on Saturday night.

[@d.j.trancelott3480]

What a classy, gracious and talented man Mr. Gleason was. A true entertainer with such a humble and endearing personality. Truly rare qualities in this day and age. Rest in peace Jackie

[@snickpickle]

I would argue quite the opposite about humility! He was magnanimous, larger-than-life, bombastic - which is what made him such a great entertainer! Granted, some of that was most likely cultivated along the way, then later became him. Even off-camera, at least in public, his persona was the same, according to reports I’ve read. As long as that persona doesn’t cause a person to treat people poorly, I have no problem with that.

[@marciakittredge4064]

How sweet this was.!!!😘🌙🚍📺🚬🇺🇸🗽❤️🤍💙 RIP Johnny Carson , Jackie Gleason & Ed McMahon 🕯🙏

[@brianl9579]

As a kid i used to sneak and stay awake to watch Johnny Carson at 11:30 on an old black and white tv in my room. I loved everything about the show…the music…the interviews…the humor that i was still too young to fully understand. Glad i got to see it in its heyday. Better, happier times for sure…