Drew Carey Kills It In His First Appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson - 11/08/1991

[@rennch.]

For those of you watching this in 2020 or beyond and don't understand what happened at the end there, it was a HUGE deal for Johnny to call you over to the couch after a stand-up set. Literally it made people's careers (Seinfeld, Eddie Murphy, et al...) and they would LAUNCH after an appearance on Carson. It was a pivotal point in Drew's career here, which is why he's so freaked out about it. Think of the 3 biggest stars in the world right now, and then combine them...that's how powerful Johnny Carson was in Hollywood during his reign.

[@thomasbonnett4800]

My goodness, be nice.

[@solohour]

@The Sinful Bastard First of all, chill dude. Second of all, it's definitely not bullshit. Listen to some interviews of stand ups from that era. You know..."do your research".

[@terrymanning8064]

​@The Sinful Bastard I am 60. I watched Johnny from the late 60's on. The call over to the chair after a great set supercharged many comics careers.

[@mdubs1986]

@The Sinful Bastard who hurt you?

[@samsignorelli]

@The Sinful Bastard In the end, it didn't matter why Carson did it...what mattered was the PERCEPTION of why he did it and the resulting effect on people's careers. Now relax before you blow a vein.

[@stephensylvester]

It's heartwarming how happy Drew seemed that the audience was enjoying his set.

[@africanmaan]

Do good on Carson, you'll have a promising career by the next day

[@katramos6816]

He was good.

[@jeremyshepherd1700]

It’s heartwarming how aware he is that his life will never be the same after that moment

[@Chaos1214]

Carey just has a personality that makes you smile. 🙂

[@matthewbennett971]

@@africanmaan He had his own standup show on Showtime like a year later and got his own show four years later.

[@MsMars.]

"You're as funny as hell." That's pure gold coming out of Johnny Carson's mouth there. Drew Carey has always been such a quick wit. Funny and clever at the same time. Just a natural. No awkward segues between jokes. Everything just flows.

[@ghanasoul]

You’re right! That confirmed it! Drew was also funny on the panel that was cool to c too.

[@jerzeyguy71]

Any good comedian practices the act many many times at local clubs until they know it backwards and forwards.. so thats why no awkward pauses.. just saying.. Love Drew!

[@wrlord]

Love how humble he was, and how thrilled he was when Johnny called him over. Johnny calling you over was a golden ticket.

[@lewisc215]

Yes, but Drew's comedy glowed......

[@davidhutchinson5233]

Oh yeah. Drew has said himself, that morning he was a club comic, the next day he was in show business. THAT was the power that Johnny Carson had.

[@RLU-wt8vi]

Everybody loves Drew. He kids you with an innocent smile and laugh. He's from my hometown area and we are proud of him.

[@ronaldadamczyk978]

I saw this the night it aired and he became an instant star. I bought tickets the next day for that evenings show in Schaumburg Illinois where he absolutely slayed a packed house.

[@oscarandbernie]

Neat story!

[@MsMars.]

Cool.

[@alexandersupertramp7353]

Cool story! Thanks for sharing it

[@poopsmith6853]

His show was only 5 or 6 years later too, was pretty good for being a Midwest but not typical family sitcom

[@mofo7689]

I had the chance to meet Drew when we were in the Marine Corps together. he always practiced on the platoon on weekends. More than once, we stayed in on weekends because he kept us laughing during duty assignments over the day.

[@MsMars.]

Very cool. I love to laugh and I love people who can make me laugh. It's a rare gift.

[@ericdreizen1463]

Yeah, sure u did. And I'm Pontius Pilot.

[@mofo7689]

@@ericdreizen1463 you people always struggle with character?

[@mofo7689]

@@ericdreizen1463 isn't she the women's olympic team goal tender?

[@WarofThoughts]

I heard he was Spec Ops, killed a lot of people

[@TheoriginalBacchuscleric]

I remember him talking about this on a Carson special. He was tearing up remembering that night when he got called over. Because everyone knew that if Carson called you over to be interviewed, it was essentially "welcome to Hollywood kid, you just made it!"

[@robjohnson8214]

Most people would say seeing your child being would be the best day of your entire life but I bet if one was being honest it would be hard to top a night like Drew's. All his dreams coming true in a moment of extreme adrenaline and excitement. What a ride.

[@antoniograncino3506]

Yes, Carson "calling you over" was a coronation of sorts.

[@drujohnson2519]

Ain't that the truth!

[@VernCrisler]

Actually, Carson shot down that idea a while back. He said he called people over if there was still time to use up on the show, not as a judgment on their comedy skills. Still, being called over by Carson would have been any stand-up comic's dream come true.

[@TheoriginalBacchuscleric]

@@VernCrisler Maybe so. But how many of those that didn't get called over become big stars? I'm sure there are some. But are there as many?

[@machuz607]

Damn he was so nervous! You can tell he he eased as he felt the crowd behind him, and took total reigns once he knew he was killing it. Then got nervous again once he was at the couch. Dude Is a legend!

[@zapkvr]

*reins* For Christ's sake

[@CertifiedDoc]

@@zapkvr All hail the raining king.

[@danielkokal8819]

that was his whole career in that one shot. bomb on Carson and youre done.

[@joes9954]

It's too bad they cut the shocked look on Drew's face when he realized Johnny wanted him to sit with him. Priceless.

[@MsMars.]

Wow, I didn't pick up on nervous-ness at all. Was I watching the same performance?

[@bjornoflson]

His appearance is like he's going back to work at NASA in the '60s after this routine.

[@nahuilegorreta6572]

Or straight to Da Nang, Vietnam

[@kylemoffett7859]

Yeah he had to have a short sleeve white shirt with a pocket protector on under that suit jacket! 😂

[@thomasdonlin5456]

He does look like one of the Mercury astronauts or Gene Kranz’s twin.

[@t-bo2734]

He looks like someone who might've thrown rocks at hippies in the 1960s.

[@siggylloyd3566]

@@t-bo2734 but not nearly as funny.

[@Odbarc]

"I don't think looking like this is worth that one joke." -- ha ha ha ha

[@ryanperrault8174]

best joke of the set.

[@KNR90]

All my friends when I make a self deprecating joke

[@donszabo7558]

Yeah that was great!

[@KNR90]

@@donszabo7558 sure, until you look in a mirror and realize the joke would work just as well for you

Solid af

[@dougbrowne9890]

Pop and I watched this, the night it aired. Pop was laughing so hard he must have woken the neighbors. Pop loved Drew. Yesterday was Pop's birthday. I miss that old man. Thanks for posting this! Good memories.

[@IoEstasCedonta]

...Drew Carey has never looked a day above or below forty.

[@robinluich5576]

Ha ha right!

[@ibrewer2204]

That's funny as hell

[@DeeeLicious]

💀💀💀

[@kathehun6034]

i think he was born 40 ...:)

[@sicilianjiu-jitsu2984]

😂😂😂😂 dude is timeless!!! He looked like this for for as long as I remember! I can't believe when I seen him on here looking just like he always did lol!

[@elizabethclothier3267]

"Know why I stopped you?" "Yeah, know why I ran the sign?" That was the laugh I needed today!

[@rahulshah1408]

I still remember him doing that skit on the Drew Carey show. It changed the way I drive :)

[@matthewwoods632]

But hey, at least it’s not snowing, eh?

[@jerryrichardson2799]

@@matthewwoods632 poke, poke.

[@larrysmith2638]

@@matthewwoods632 THAT'S what he should have said to end the set.

[@bobmortimerisweird]

I was in the audience in The Price is Right about 12 years ago and was really surprised at how funny Drew was. During the commercial breaks he'd improv, cracking jokes at the contestants and he really is funny as hell. I liked him on his show and Who's Line but didn't know he was THAT quick and funny.

[@jr2904]

I miss the Drew Carey show, and his version of who's line

[@VectraQS]

I was in the audience yesterday and he's still at it. I think he likes having the big audience back after COVID. He's riffing on people's jobs, riffing on the surroundings of the new location.

[@MatthewBennett-h1k]

He learned improv on Whose Line. He got visibly better as the seasons went by...I'm honestly shocked he hasn't been brought back as a guest star.

[@BrownBrother27]

​​@@MatthewBennett-h1k Drew recently appeared with Whose Line in Northern California on February 16, 2024. He mentioned it in between during a taping break for "The Price is Right."

[@MrEsMysteriesMagicks]

Carson: "You're funny as hell." Carey: "Thank you. You, too." Great ad lib!

[@lw1391]

Terrific compliment by Carson.

[@williamsheingorn4431]

He may have anticipated that compliment,I’m just thinking Like Lloyd Benson in 1988 vs Dan Quayle in the VP debate,”You’re no Jack Kennedy “.

[@jon4715]

Such a naturally funny guy.

[@Face2theScr33n]

@Bill of Rights Influenced or owned by China.

[@freakazoid4691]

@Bill of Rights So it's fake propaganda? How does that work?

[@ppumpkin3282]

When he was called to sit down next to Johnny, he kept looking like he was waiting to be told to leave.

[@marinevetoneroman7232]

unfortunately it was cut off on this video.. but I was lucky enough to see it live...👍

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

@@marinevetoneroman7232 So did I. The look on Drew's face when Johnny motioned for him to sit down was priceless. Right there in a six-minute standup, he had just hit the big time.

[@ParkerUAS]

@@Gunners_Mate_Guns , when Johnny Carson says, "You're funny as hell!". Biggest accolade one can get. Emmy, Oscar, Star on a Hollywood sidewalk? Second to that compliment.

[@sigep145]

Johnny asking a comic to sit down was all they needed on a resume. I miss Carson. I've always been thankful that I'm old enough where Leno isn't my idea of 'classic' Tonight Show.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

@@sigep145 No question about it. People too young to remember Johnny have no idea just how much power he wielded to both make and break a career. Hell, even such comedic giants as Steven Wright and Jerry Seinfeld had to make a second appearance before getting their own turns in the coveted chair.

[@kernallingus6205]

I loved how Drew told the joke, looked up and saw the crowd actually laugh, and then proceed to laugh in the best, contagious sounding, wholesome laugh, ever

[@donnawanna3680]

Yes I love Drew's laugh and how he laughs at his own jokes

[@killerdoritoWA]

It's December 2021, and I'm watching Drew Carey host The Price is Right with professionalism and humor. Johnny Carson would be proud.

[@mactheknife7049]

Drew Carey took one shot on The Tonight Show and turned it into a 9 figure career. You can't do much better than that.

[@guydaley]

He's on par with George Carlin. Odd, I haven't seen hardly any of his stand-up, but this skit was outstanding.

[@thegameshowguy1]

Mac The Knife What an amazing career. Starting on The Tonight Show, then his own sitcom, then hosting Whose Line, Improvaganza, and is now the host of one of the best game shows in the history of broadcasting. What a career.

[@patsfan4life]

The guy is very talented

[@themarriedcouple9924]

I believe he's the highest paid game show host on television. His net worth is insane! Like 185 million...something around that figure.

[@tombates9122]

@@themarriedcouple9924 Yep, the cops in his area must dread rainy days.

[@richardburchett]

“It’s not worth looking like this for that one joke.” LOL

[@ghanasoul]

I love watchin moments like that. The days when a comic’s killer set on Carson made your career. The exposure Drew got from this led to a cable special, more TV appearances and eventually his own sitcom.

[@darrenkastl8160]

And the "Price is Right"

[@BigStarRealFamous]

Wait, that guy had his own TV show??

[@ghanasoul]

@@BigStarRealFamous ha. Funny.

[@davidcarter2720]

I like the TV series "I'm Dying Up Here" largely because it showed the road many comics took in the 60's thru 90's in pursuit of success in their art form. Apparently I was one of a few dozen who liked it. Also liked Gadd and Crystal in "The Comedians" - cancelled just when it hit its stride - another funny look into the egos and lazze faireish dog sorta eat dog world in which they meander about.

[@lilivonshtup3808]

@@BigStarRealFamous Yeah, it was even called, "The Drew Carey Show."

[@Howard007]

Drew Carrey has looked the exact same his entire life. Probably came out of the womb with those glasses on

[@brogcooper25]

He has since had lasik. Keeps the glasses.

[@brogcooper25]

@Gatto Di Ossa I've never watched much of his stand up but The Drew Carey Show was hilarious back in the day.

[@patricktrickett8396]

Google "drew carey marine" to see how wrong you are

[@Fern635]

@@patricktrickett8396 Oh, my! Excuse me while I pick my jaw up off the floor. Not at all what I was expecting.

[@Fern635]

On a side note, I also wasn't expecting his middle name to be "Allison" 🤣

[@LRTrack]

Wow! The audience was generous and genuinely entertained by this new young comedian. I can't get over their enthusiasm. I always loved Drew Carey but this is the first time I've seen him do a stand-up routine. He nailed it!

[@billydurham4143]

Carson recognized talent and gave them their due.

[@varianschirmer9375]

He really did look like a live-action "Dilbert".

[@kevinjokipii4260]

His first big comedy special was titled "Human Cartoon"

[@bluesmurf6142]

Funny drop my coffee man

[@toddmccreary4579]

I think he's Dilbert's brother.

[@philmstud2k]

When I was flipping through the channels and saw The Drew Carey Show for the first time, I thought it was a live-action Dilbert show.

[@bink]

@@philmstud2k I believe he makes a reference to it on an episode of Drew Carey

[@musicalmelodies3595]

Drew Carey fresh out of 1962; looking like a Kennedy cabinet member lol

[@FawleyJude]

Yep, he always reminded me of '60s game show host Bill Cullen who had the same flat-top crew cut and big horn-rim glasses.

[@أحمدالجهني-ي4ط]

😂

[@burkeshaw]

I have often wondered if they ever made a live action sitcom of Scott Adams comic strip "Dilbert" would Drew be in contention for the lead? Drew was drop dead hilarious on his "Drew Carey Show"!

[@grassshadow1]

Fresh out of the marines

[@quezcatol]

@@grassshadow1 no nasa

[@arcanondrum6543]

*This appearance meant everything to Drew. He talks about it still.* Johnny, Ed and Doc were all there that night, Drew "killed 'em" and Drew got to go sit down and speak to Johnny. You got to do that when you did well.

[@gustafsone]

Another thing I noticed that I thought was really cool was when Drew got to the punchline of his Yugo joke, you can also hear Ed Shaughnessy giving some support with a couple of hits on the kick drum.

[@artlover4668]

@@MidwestFarmToys None of what isn't right? Watch the PBS Carson doc, Cary talks about his appearance.

[@dans9463]

Got to sit next to Johnny ..... Ok nice Don't idolize

[@Mozart1220]

@@dans9463 For a stand up comic, getting "called over" was akin to winning the lottery. If you got the show it was a huge career boost. If Johnny gave you a "thumbs up" it meant he approves but "thanks...next". Getting called over for a sit down was being accepted into the "big boys club"

[@dans9463]

@@Mozart1220 Ok But still.. Not to lose perspective of the bigger purpose in life

[@CaptainAmaziiing]

If you made it to Johnny's stage, you were halfway there. If he invited you over to have a seat after your set, you had arrived.

[@5roundsrapid263]

If he then told you, “You’re funny as hell!”, it was the comic equivalent of a winning home run in the World Series!

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

Glad to hear from someone who remembers the power of the coveted chair next to Johnny.

[@u686st7]

I remember watching that night. Unfortunately, they cut out Johnny's motioning to Drew to come over to the couch and Drew's reaction.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

@@u686st7 Fortunately, that moment is right here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6nNmXiafbSVpqs

[@ziadbassaj7761]

And if he asks you: “ will you come back and see us again”.......you’re guaranteed a cable TV Special.

[@newsduke]

Back then, impressing Johnny would give a HUGE boost to someone's career. The jokes all landed, and his Rodney Dangerfield-style humility and midwestern sensibility probably appealed to Carson as well.

[@Fern635]

I'm happy to see that I wasn't the only one who got a Dangerfield vibe from him

[@treeguyable]

Seen both guys for decades, just noticed the Dangerfield connection.

[@rickdeckard1075]

he was just doing an updated rodney dangerfield

[@poop__sandwich]

for real, the "thanks hey you too" when Johnny called him a funny guy is such a killer line

[@jeffcharles9344]

But this was funny, and I never cared for Dangerfield.

[@VUrban-yr5ch]

Loved Drew. He looked like my dad. He died was I was young and I remember he made me laugh. I miss my dad so much. Thanks for bringing back so great memories. 🤗

[@InformationIsTheEdge]

Johnny Carson and his staff just had a great nose for talent. So many great comedians launched their careers on The Tonight Show. Oh, and yes, Drew Carey totally Crushed it that night.

[@whataboutbob9786]

Tonight show was the Grand Central Station of entertainment.

[@Diamonddogusa]

@@geocam2 And stealing their jokes.

[@opryman1]

Johnny says you're funny as hell. That's akin to being crowned a king.

[@zerocool527]

Exactly

[@jeffreyyeater1780]

That was the king crowning you.

[@HKKRAMER]

I would have stopped breathing when he called me over.

[@Kelnx]

I never found Drew Carey's standups that great, but he is naturally funny. Like, get him out of his routine, he is at his best.

[@frank234561]

Except Drew isn't funny at all.

[@michaelorosz272]

I was a bartender at Rumours night club at 14th and Euclid in Cleveland...Drew was a bar back that would crack us up all the time...great guy....so happy he made it big. 😊

[@NS-my5ko]

One set, one call to the couch, and a star was born. Thirty years later he's had his own sitcom, host of the most well-known platform in improv comedy, and now host of the highest rated daytime show and longest-running game show in history. I met Drew when I was a contestant on TPIR. He was incredibly nice and his banter with the audience during commercials was priceless. One of the waitresses at a nearby restaurant says Drew comes in frequently when he tapes TPIR. She said he always leaves large tips for the staff, never turns down a photo op or autograph with a fan, and ALWAYS picks up the tab for anyone who is active duty or retired military/EMS/police/firefighter. Class act and funny!

[@iamgort70]

He killed it, must have been so encouraging for a young comedian nailing it in such a high profile show.

[@Sam-ef3bj]

Great set, great comedian. Johnny Carson was an institution in Hollywood. Made the careers of so many comedians. And he absolutely did not have to do that. The man just loved giving deserving people that boost into the business.

[@momsfacebook5183]

I saw an interview with Drew about this night. He called it one of the greatest moments of his life. I miss Johnny Carson.

[@MrEsMysteriesMagicks]

For those of you who are not aware, Johnny Carson in his day was something of a career maker for young comedians. If he liked you, he called you over to the chair. If that happened, your career was pretty much assured. If he didn't call you over, doors didn't open up quite as easily for you. Carey may have been the last new comic to earn this honor. Certainly, he was one of the last because Carson retired five and a half months later. Sadly, this video cuts out one of the best parts of this performance. When Johnny called Drew over, Cary was honestly stunned and stood there for a second pointing at himself saying, "Me?"

[@propriusly]

You are so rigyt. Johnny helped out a lot of young comics. Johnny really the onescould keep the routine "family friendly"; no foul stuff.

[@MrEsMysteriesMagicks]

@Jim McCracken There's another video out there that shows it.

[@MrEsMysteriesMagicks]

@Jim McCracken Type "Drew Carey Carson" in the KZbin search bar.

[@stephenkolman5727]

David Spade was called over and didnt see it.

[@pitchforker3304]

Thanks, I didn't know that - very cool

[@marcweeks9178]

I saw a recent interview with Drew Carey in which he said that after this Tonight Show performance his phone blew up with calls offering gigs. He was a star overnight. This kind of folksy, nonpolitical humor will always be a favorite.

[@EdwoodCA]

Most of it's folksy. Agreed. But, joking about getting the runs after eating a chili dog, and playing jokes on cops on rainy days for kicks.... If that's folksy... I'm all for it! :D [Such a great set! I saw him at the Irvine Improv after his sitcom had been on air a couple seasons. He told that cop in the rain joke by added that he was driving his 'dream' car that he'd bought with his TV show money: A Miata!]

[@borisbulldog]

Well overnight if you don’t count years of working standup in dingy comedy clubs in 3rd rate cities.

[@michaeleaster1815]

There's an American Masters documentary on Johnny where comedians talk about getting their big break on the Tonight Show. Drew was so moved by telling his story (and the impact) that he was choking back tears.

[@EmersumBiggins]

You mean his answering machine blew up 😉

[@TheRealMirCat]

@@borisbulldog "Overnight" doesn't mean instant out of the gate. It means the dynamic changed [literally in this case] overnight. For years he was struggling. Then one day he got his big break. He went to bed a struggling artist and woke up famous with money being thrown at him.

[@Chrisuperfly1]

Drew Carey was at Khandahar Intl Airport Christmas Eve 2001, he flew in with a couple of Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, man they smelled so good. He sang some songs, told some jokes. Thanks Drew, much respect.

[@majordamage6949]

Lol. You could have said"Man! They looked so good!" But you took it up a notch with smelled so good. 😅😅 Awesome!

[@Carl-LaFong1618]

did they smell like who-or's?

[@thomasrobinette3227]

@@Carl-LaFong1618 hahaha

[@jm5732]

"What is that..lettuce? Get the hell out of my way!" 🤣

[@tonyjames1953]

This line was a gut-buster for me!!

[@renekackline2377]

I laughed so hard!

[@kamalindsey]

"You are funny as hell!" "Thanks! You too" 😂

[@nonplayercharacter6478]

That was one of the best bits, I think. Completely off the cuff, shockingly funny when it aired. And that delivery, even got a massive laugh from Carson, it was so unexpected. That was a 'pro gamer' move before there were pro gamers.

[@HS22181]

I imagine all his high school reunions after this moment were more fun for him.

[@rickdaystar477]

Yes he's actually from Solon Ohio, a small town that he did alot for after he became wealthy and famous.

[@chasbodaniels1744]

“We’re goin’ bowlin’, don’t lose ‘er in Solon, moon over Parma tonight!”

[@michaelsabo281]

@@rickdaystar477 - he is from Old Brooklyn, a section of Cleveland...

[@rickdaystar477]

@Jack Casey Thank you for that information. The world is alot better place now.

[@MuscarV2]

@Rick Daystar it's hilarious that your reaction to being told you're dumb is to be even dumber and reply with a childish comment that is even more grammaticaly wrong. You straight out put a conformation stamp on your idiot diploma. From me and everyone else that will read this; thanks for the laugh, few things are as chuckleable as really stupid people trying to act "smart". Oh, and as said, he's not from Solon... No idea why you just said something untrue that's very easy to fact check.

[@jerrykinnin7941]

Carson is the King of comedy. Late nite will never be the same.

[@jsaavedr1]

You're right, it will never be the same, it's going to be amazing! Who's Johnny Carson? Isn't she the one that hosted MTV's Total Request Live? Lol

[@original6hockey402]

Late night comedy is like watching CNN.🤮

[@original6hockey402]

Far Out Man Comedy or lack of it is all politics so it’s like CNN trying to be funny

[@whyisblue923taken]

All soy boy satanists telling you to worship them now. Awful stuff.

[@gunfuego]

Conan is better than Carson, but that's just my opinion....

[@claygilchrist632]

It's so funny watching how Carey was clearly nervous in the chair next to Carson (who wouldn't be, right?). He earned that invite and even made him laugh harder again after he sat down.

[@jackkircher1755]

He handled himself very well! He has come a very long way. I know he isn't done yet!

[@bobbyd9319]

@@jackkircher1755 right....a game show host.....he never was funny...

[@robertsprouse9282]

@@bobbyd9319, not like you..nope.

[@Travelling..Bottle..Digger]

I have to respectfully disagree

[@pfanzers]

@@bobbyd9319 The Drew Carey Show is literally one of the funniest sitcoms of all time

[@Boothenson]

"Hey, do you have any mayonnaise?" The fact that I get this joke really shows my age.

[@Mork2001]

Booth Boothenson He did not say Grey Poupon 😊

[@thisiswhatilike54]

J J That’s the joke.

[@Sabogey]

I DON'T GET IT!!! ANYONE!?!?!

[@Boothenson]

@@Sabogey Its an old joke about a stupid commercial and it doesnt work anymore because its no longer 1991.

[@ParkerAllen2]

@@Sabogey There used to be a commercial for mustard where somebody pulls up in a Rolls Royce-type car and asks the person in the car next to them if they happen to have any "Grey Poupon Mustard" - implying that it was a very classy product. The joke is that mayonnaise is a mundane everyday product.

[@christopherbush9027]

You can’t overstate Carson’s power in show business - he could literally catapult you with a simple wave over to the couch. There is no one in all of TV, streaming, social media or any other format that wields that kind of power today.

[@DiscoFang]

Well, Epstein did but that particular couch has been thrown out!

[@oscarandbernie]

Yep as Randy Credico of Roger Stone fame a Vegas comic impressionist who did Carson and pissed Johnny off never to be on again...

[@richardleeLOL]

That is so true no late night talk show host or talk show host will ever be like Johnny Carson who always cared about getting great up and coming great talented comedians

[@ericdreizen1463]

Well, except for Wolf "Holy Grail" Blitzer, who has been referred to by both Pee Wee Herman & Ru Paul as "the bearded god of all sardine cans!"

[@robertsprouse9282]

Wrong, the internet got a RESIDENT "ELECTED".

[@emmagrove6491]

Nearly 30 years later and this is STILL hilarious.

[@frankjuarez1367]

Every time I watch it I laugh.

[@melanies.6030]

@@frankjuarez1367 "Up on the sidewalk, boom, boom, boom.......🎶" 😂😂😂

[@annchovey2089]

Shows how little human nature changes if at all.

[@bostonrailfan2427]

inoffensive self-depreciation humor is timeless, especially if you steer clear of politics and pop culture

[@karend4406]

Its actually not

[@randallpuckett2020]

Drew always comes across as a humble likable guy. You see when sat down next to Johnny he was very thankful to be there and appreciated the opportunity

[@Jaasau]

The hot dog slapping lettuce out of the way had me rolling. 😂😂😂

[@Skelly5962]

He looks like an IBM Employee circa 1962

[@OrangeAgent5]

The times when *being invited to Johnny´s desk* was equivalent to join the knighthood of comedy...

[@Chipwhitley274]

And this was evidence of why that archaic thinking doesn't work... that there is a gatekeeper... a guy who makes people. That idolization worked... it made careers. Because execs who don't know what's funny, rely on blindly trusting an icon's approval... if Carson approved then let's move this career along. But guess what? Carson didn't always get it right... and you get this mediocre career equivalent to mayonnaise... that is profitable because he fits in generic roles of starring in a decent T.V. show... and being a useless host of an improve show, and a game-show host... he has general appeal with middle aged and elderly audiences... that is his bread and butter. It absolutely pays the bills... but he isn't a great comedian.

[@pertnear3372]

Thankfully, not everyone thinks as you do. So what happened ~ did you not make it on stage? You seem jealous.

[@Chipwhitley274]

@@pertnear3372, Your Ad-Hominem attack only demonstrates your inability to refute the merrits of my arguments. Being able to judge a comedian objectively does not mean I have some chip on my shoulder... that is just a cop-out excuse to discredit me so you can just sweep away the substance of my position.

[@davehodderson8511]

@@Chipwhitley274 isn't your opinion subjective though?

[@Chipwhitley274]

@@davehodderson8511, Do you have evidence that he had more other majorly sucessful comedic ventures besides the mediocre ones I listed? Major comedy specials... selling out stadiums... sucessful comedy films etc.? The proof is in the vanilla pudding.

[@jeffcurtis5265]

I live 10 miles from where Drew is from. A proud Cleveland native like me who has made our city proud

[@Maxid1]

We have so much in common! I was born 378 miles from where Drew is from! And now I'm 2,483 miles from where he was born!

[@roberthoffhines5419]

Drew KILLED that night. 39 i mean 29 years later and I still remember how charmed I was by his demeanor as much as anything. They cut it here, but his gesture of surprise when Johnny waived him over to the couch is so honest. There's an interview where he recalls the moment and he tears up. It meant that much to him.

[@ViaticalTree]

Try 29 years

[@mdteletom1288]

When you got called to Johnny's couch you made it back then. I remember seeing him on Star Search too. I don't think he was nearly this good. Did anyone catch who was in the middle between Drew and Ed?

[@2AForever-wi8yj]

@@mdteletom1288 George Segal

[@koryandrews1665]

39 years? Your math is off. I'm 36 and was born in '84.

[@JimLigon]

Drew Carey is a great dude. I used to watch his TV show too. Funny funny guy. And from what I hear, he is very humble & down to earth as well. You can't help but be happy for people like him.

[@linuspoindexter106]

There's no substitute for talent, and people know it when they see it.

[@JamesSmith-pm4wz]

He knocked it out of the park!

[@fr8carmark]

I met Drew and he is one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure.

[@plev10]

It's so great to see someone's life change in 7 minutes. Of course it took him 10 years to get there. That's what they mean when they say overnight sensation. 🙂

[@BeazleyStudios]

Drew is such a great talent. You can tell he was nervous doing his set, but I'm happy that he became so successful.

[@Chipwhitley274]

A mediocre game-show host, and useless improve show host... does not a great talent make.

[@estelleschneider9033]

@@Chipwhitley274 If you do not have something nice to say keep it to your self Be kind be gentle..do not join in the negativity of the world make the world a better place Drew Cary was very funny here ..God Bless You All

[@Chipwhitley274]

@@estelleschneider9033, You have no authority to command me to behave in any way. I believe it is positive to promote true talent, and voice opposition when it exists... that is how the market decides. But part of that growth is in recognizing that an outdated metric should be a abandoned... like considering certain celebrity endorsements as if it is gospel.

[@Eyes-of-Horus]

Yes, Drew Carey is a nice guy. After every season of the "The Drew Carey Show" he would take the cast and crew on a vacation to Hawaii to thank them for their work. He would do so much for the people that worked for him. Don't find anything like that in many performers.

[@Travelling..Bottle..Digger]

not true at all... he acts that way all the time

[@tylerdurden2300]

Back when late night was worth losing sleep for.

[@Jdelli0916]

Late night shows are dead to the world these days.

[@jeffreyyeater1780]

No kidding . Now its just slam Trump . wont watch it . the older comedians actually used their brains .

[@bobreich3534]

Well said

[@jacktrppr1]

You're all old now, thats all

[@Huskerliving]

@@jacktrppr1 No, we are older. But the the comment from the first guy and replies from the next three stand as correct. You will never have comedy as good as Johnny Carson's era again.

[@Farbar1955]

I saw this when it happened and I couldn't stop laughing. "Up on the sidewalk, bump, bump, bump..." and I was on the floor in tears.

[@Bixfan78]

With this one great monologue, Drew Carey became a star! I still love to watch him on "The Price Is Right." He seems genuinely interested in the contestants.

[@johnkoziol1537]

It looks like to me that Drew, while he was sitting in “the chair,” looked like he couldn’t believe he was sitting there in a “what-am-I-doing-here” sort of way.

[@cynthiabustamante2884]

I think that's when they knew J.C. really like them. And thought really funny. Yeah for sure he's thinking. I can't believe I'm sitting here!

[@christinadoxstader1787]

Well you're spot on there John. Carson would have comedians on all the time but most of them weren't waived over to chat a bit so what happened here was a huge deal. That is more evident when you see Drew's reaction to being waived over. Not sure why they cut it out here but the look on his face says it all.

[@stratmaster5]

Was curious who the man was sitting next to him with the New York Yankees jacket on

[@RickSeraf]

@@stratmaster5 George Segal.

[@davidturk6301]

John Koziol - in one of his interviews, he said he was in partial shock when when he got called over. This clip was edited at the end of his performance, but in an unedited version, he actually does a double take when asked to come over. He pointed to himself and mouthed the words, “me?”. Whenever asked, he always credited Johnny for launching his career (even before Johnny died).

[@ch13t]

This young man has potential, he should consider a serious career hosting a comedy game show.

[@jessragan6714]

Whose game show would it be, anyway?

[@EagleEyeM4]

@@jessragan6714 I'm sure he'll find the "RIGHT" one... Lol

[@ch13t]

Shiftt so not unfunny means it’s funny. 1000 points for you.

[@bredrick677]

@@shiftt. No, one wouldn't see it if one read it in a KZbin comment. Because sarcasm is practically undetectable in text form. Have a good day.

[@terib4332]

Yes, but not the Price is Right. He sucks at real game shows. Bring back a Bob!

[@chips1a]

I got to see Drew Carey at his very first headlining act. That was before this appearance. I was in the first row that night center of the stage. I was iin a very deep dark depression at the time and he was so funny I laughed the first time in a long time that night, I credit him with saving my life.

[@unknownfilmmaker777]

"You're funny as hell." "You, too."

[@robm8774]

Clean comedic exaggeration and surprise!

[@brianandrew9594]

A few things: - I always loved seeing comedians realize their dreams by being on The Tonight Show - It truly was a rite of passage to get Johnny’s approval; he was the best - Drew Carey is clearly on cloud nine ... you can just see it in his face and behavior

[@itsnotatoober]

less things

[@bostonrailfan2427]

not long after he got movie roles which gave him exposure on top of the approval leading to his TV show

[@jasoncinema]

Right?! It’s so amazing watching all this occur in clips like these. Younger generations don’t understand the weight an appearance and call over to the couch gave comedians on Carson - the next day, your phone would ring, with your agent fielding offers you’d already be receiving just based solely on that one appearance! It was definitely a career launcher!

[@mr.robinson1982]

Carson had a way of putting his guests first & @ ease. I miss a Tonight Show host that doesn't suck. I only watched less than a handful of Leno's Tonight Show. He sucked too.

[@audiogus2651]

- and a nice congratulatory pat on the back from George Segal right at the end too.

[@susandevitte2137]

During the early 80s Drew was my waiter at Dennys. He said he was going to be an actor. I am thinking. Yeah. Look what happened. Never give up on your dream even when people think, yeah.

[@danielbonzaibuckerooo]

well.. .. i sold this kid a car 10 years ago and he said he was gonna be a rapper, Lankey white kid weird too, saw him recently he's still a bum.....also the guy who washes the cars on the lot has been trying to be a singer for 50 years now , its pretty sad , he gets shows but they don't pay money just food and drink , maybe he'll get a show that'll pay 200 , he even made an album and music video 15 years ago , still hold'n onto that dream , Also he now lives in an old school bus.. i think most people need to face reality cause its so rare for someone to hit it big even if they're talented. Gordon Ramsey also talks about how his Father was running after a dream to be a singer that was never possible and had his family and himself living a miserable life cause of it..

[@oscarandbernie]

Was that in Vegas? I met Drew then as he slept on Paul Brown's couch. He was a skinny kid wearing wire rim glasses and had longish hair.

[@susandevitte2137]

@@oscarandbernie yes it was in the early 80s. The Dennys next to the Stardust.

[@oscarandbernie]

@@susandevitte2137 nice Susan! I got pics at Oscar and Bernie Dotcom and Paul got a nice letter from Drew thanking him for helping him as a struggling comic in Vegas. Paul said he come home after working graveyard at the Royal casino and Drew up all night going over his material from Joe Behar's open mic. Paul said he was afraid Drew was getting depressed so he drove him to LA to go to Drew's older brother Neil's home. Paul said he didn't want Drew shooting himself on his couch as he just bought it and still making payments! Mitzi Shore told the bizarre Paul R to stay in LA...Paul came back to Vegas.

[@tiradoentertainmentllc.2517]

great story

[@artyboy1377]

He nailed it just by looking and talking the way he does. That's a trademark comic caricature there.

[@markbell9973]

It's trademark CLE, a VERY special and trublu American place in your land and my land! How the Universe landed me, wet behind the ears boy from smalltown, beyond-rural northeastern AZ for 10 MAGA (truly MAGA, mind you) years of my professor career I do not know. I just thank my lucky stars every day. SO, adopted CLE parentals: na nanah nah nah nah! I have a right to say stuff about you that you would NEVER say about yourselves. Also: when I tried to say it to your face you put on this dismissive little act damn you! I see thru it tho. He who laughs last.....gedth.drift? 💌💏🔥😈😡

[@TheOriginalFreak]

And that boys and girls are how stars used to be made.

[@planetrob555]

Yep. Do well on Carson and chances are you were going to make it.

[@ericcoon2787]

Exactly, keep grinding it out where ever you can, while possibly shitting your pants from nervous anxiety. Usually doesn't pan out, but you hit that big break eventually. Perseverance pays dividends - keep fishing, never stop.

[@ThePopeII]

For the Yugo joke, I thought it was going to be two Yugos meeting at an intersection: "You go" "No, you go!"

[@isveryniceyes]

They did that on Portlandia

[@papagena1]

Me too!

[@DiscoFang]

I guess that's why Drew Carey was the one on Carson's show.

[@jimsmith2877]

Saw drew Carey in detroit area years ago when he was starting out. Never heard of him, but went there for a date. Sat in front,not many people there, but whomever was there, laughed,and laughed.

[@ardalla535]

"You're funny as hell." I don't think Johnny ever said that anybody else.

[@DGot14U]

Not those exact words but he said it to Jay Leno.

[@sadiomayonnaise5318]

He say that pretty much about every single comedian who came on

[@MrGabeanator]

wow

[@neuvocastezero1838]

"Thanks.... you too." lol

[@MrGabeanator]

@@neuvocastezero1838 hah

[@pacesetterproducts5085]

That was great . Drew was awesome and got the extremely rare first appearance comic call over !!

[@Juk3b0x_H3r0]

The reflection in his glasses looks like eyes and I can’t unsee it.

[@CrownRock1]

In a few shots it looks really creepy.

[@jchis9852]

Percy Dovetonsils

[@rexfaren8206]

I noticed that too

[@hankkingsley2976]

That's because they were just clear lenses with no correction and that's how they look on TV just part of his act

[@JCBluenote24]

The show after Johnny passed, Jay Leno said this was the moment that made Drew Carey's career. Looking back 29 years later I'd say having your own successful sitcom, hosting several game shows, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a NY Times best-seller is validation.

[@mike19640]

Watching it again in 2024 and still laughing through tears! Funny as hell just like Johnny said!

[@EnligUlv]

I forgot how good this guy was at stand up.

[@jugaajugaa3447]

I didn't even know.

[@jeffcharles9344]

I only saw this routine once before, but I always remembered that joke about stopping the cop in the rain.

[@tinman5322]

I needed to be reminded just how hilariously brilliant Drew can be.

[@daveblevins3322]

Excellent 👌 I really miss Johnny and all the crew.

[@yukonzach]

Actually watched this "live" when it aired on the Tonight Show. Never seen anything like it. Quoted that cop-in-the-rain joke for years after. Such a great introduction to a fantastic performer.

[@angrylambie]

any time I need a smile I can watch this - great set, and iconic interaction with Johnny and Ed..

[@RPMX4]

Mannnn did this crowd love him or what!!! That was absolutely beautiful. They ate Drew up. So nice to see. And what a great guy.

[@bestoutcomes]

USMC veteran who didn't use his service in the acts. A funny guy then to now

[@Earthneedsado-over177]

Just imagine the intestinal fortitude it takes to get out there on stage on The Tonight Show with Carson watching, an audience, TV cameras pointed at you and all the voices in your head telling you not to screw up.😬

[@katiezee2]

@Love Otis Hickory ahahaha

[@andrewlybbert9527]

Drew absolutely OWNED the 90's! The guy was such a big part of my childhood... so funny!

[@AmitZinmanVideo]

Now we know what Dilbert doing standup like he's an auctioneer sounds like.

[@zeero62]

Drew Carey deserves every success that comes his way.....a real good guy.

[@Chrisuperfly1]

Will always have the utmost respect for Drew Carey, he has done a lot to support the troops over the years and I remember the first time I saw him live, at Khandahar International Airport on December 24th, 2001. Thank you Mr. Carey you made us all laugh on a cold Christmas Eve.

[@gungriffen]

Sgt Carey USMC, probably had a different level of humor when he was in lol. (Carey was in United States Marine Corp from 1981-1987, serving for six years as a field radio operator in the 25th Marine Regiment)

[@ekimp252]

When he tells Ed, "I was in the Marine Corps too', 'nuff said.

[@RobMacKendrick]

Well that explains the hair and glasses.

[@ekimp252]

@@RobMacKendrick In my time, we called them Clark Kent's. Now they're BCG's. Boot Camp Glasses, or Birth Control Glasses.

[@Keithustus]

Ya, probably a little dirtier language then.

[@sicilianjiu-jitsu2984]

@@RobMacKendrick It's like his time as a Marine was essential to his career. Amazing how it all went down!

[@branon6565]

Drew's actually born and raised in Parma, Ohio, a small city just south east of Cleveland...He bought his childhood home and restored it back to what it looked like when he was a kid, only brand new...I worked in a home right down the street from that house....former Marine, Drew's a badass in real life....

[@ronnietoots6797]

super interesting comment, thanks!

[@getlostyougoofball]

Born and raised in Parma? BS. Flowerdale is not in Parma, it's in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood. He graduated from Rhodes HS.

[@raybassman7536]

Cool, I wonder if he went to same high school as the Ghoul. "Oh No Mr. Bill!!!!

[@willgaukler8979]

Raybassman ...” oh no Mr. Bill “ ... lol

[@skobuffs5761]

I rented a car one time - can’t remember the town - but I asked the counter guy if any stars ever rented a car from them. He said a few weeks ago Drew Carey came to rent a car and he was just a regular guy. Very polite said thank you yes sir no sir. It’s hard not to like a guy like that.

[@njhansen9815]

Carey is hysterical---as was The Drew Carey Show.

[@Zett76]

Loved it. In my country, it always on Saturday afternoon, together with Friends - and I was one of the few who liked Drew‘s show even more. 😁

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

"You're funny as hell." And Drew executes a perfect grand slam right there.

[@mjproebstle]

remember watching this live. he made me feel so proud to have grown up just outside of cleveland! he reminded me of my college roommate who was from Middleburg heights. thanks again for the memories, and a good laugh :)

[@MegaSkills9]

History in the making. Great set by Drew. Johnny gave so many people their start on his show.

[@marvinthiessen3454]

One of the best first appearances on the Tonight Show for a comedian. Drew, you're a very funny guy. I love the ribbing he got on "Who's Line" from the other stand-up comedians.

[@RMR1]

That's every comic's dream right there -- to not only kill on The Tonight Show, but to get called over and kill AGAIN sitting there right next to Carson. It's like comic nirvana.

[@RONALDB62]

I love that he touched Johnnys desk a couple of times to make make sure this experience was real and not a dream.

[@davidbartosic5351]

At least it ain't snowin'. As an Ohioan, that line made me laugh more than any other because I love snow and feel I'm the only one here who does.

[@CCM_GS]

David Bartosic that and the drive thru liquor stores... 😂

[@Wonky-Donkey]

I'm sorry you feel so alone David but you know what?...... at least it ain't snowing. Greetings from Wisconsin.

[@5roundsrapid263]

I grew up on the Gulf Coast. It’s just the opposite. We love snow. We say “At least it’s not 100 degrees!”.

[@mjproebstle]

lived in chesterland - snow belt - that was our credo

[@tdibell]

David Bartosic I’m from Ashtabula, right in the lake effect snow belt. Winter blizzards, playing football games in two feet of snow! Ice storms, loved them! Spring with muddy football fields for spring practice. And yeah, at least it ain’t snowing! I’m in San Francisco now and I say to folks, “At least we’re not doing this in Cleveland!” It always gets a laugh!!

[@deborah_chrysoprase]

It's incredibly rare for me to be this proud to be from Cleveland, Ohio and having lived in Cuyahoga County all my life.

[@markbell9973]

Read my comment above brah! Much love. Undying love, Mark

[@markbell9973]

WILL yawl 50/50 libtard/Re-pubs just freakin run this country? pleez and I damn well mean it!