Merritt Heaton, Illinois Oldest Farmer Steals The Show | Carson Tonight Show

[@michaelsalaway6863]

I am so proud to have had this man as my Great Grandfather. In real life he really was that sharp, that funny, and every bit amazing as he was in this interview. When he was asked to go on.. he had never seen the show. Johnny treated him with class and respect. Never get tired of seeing this clip! Always makes me laugh out loud.

[@paulypooper2]

What a great thing your grandfather did by putting his fear aside and appearing on the show . I’ve watched this clip at least five times and apparently I’m not the only one .

[@sheripetrey4257]

Treasure those memories and share them with your grandchildren and their children. Show this video to them♥️♥️♥️

[@marydonohoe8200]

He was delightful. You had a solid background! 😉

[@toodlypip77]

Yes you can see the respect from Johnny

[@k1m6a11]

Class and respect... you're right. Today so much humour is built on "pranks" and ridicule, it felt so good to just see honest mutual respect and genuine laughter. Your GG seems like he was one hell of a guy! ps it's hilarious that he'd never seen the show given the way he fudged his answer to that question - very honourable.

[@donwilcox728]

Merritt Heaton lived another 14 months after this. This aired 2/4/88 and he died 4/26/89 at the age of 98. He is buried in Toulon Cemetery, Toulon, Stark County, Illinois next to his wife Edith who passed away 17 years earlier in 1972. His oldest son Hayden who he said worked with him on the farm passed away at age 92 in 2002. All five of his children are now deceased with the last, a daughter named Lucille passing away at age 93 in 2014. God bless everyone in this video, his wife and their children for all have now passed on to heaven.

[@spuwho]

Hard to believe but his grandkids have started to pass away recently. I wonder if the family still runs the farm.

[@donwilcox728]

@@spuwho I wonder if every now and then some tonight show fan just shows up on the front porch asking for the Heaton's.

[@Android_Warrior]

I got a question for you, what happened to his farm?

[@Android_Warrior]

YOUR COMMENT SHOULD BE PINNED BY THIS CHANNEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@helenel4126]

And now Betty White too. The old cliche is true - they don't make 'em like they used to!

[@Jesse-cx4si]

Hands down, the greatest talk show host who ever was and ever will be.

[@wileydiscounttobaccoandbev6515]

The best!

[@godzillamanstreb524]

Definitely 🎉

[@brettd530]

Hands down.

[@deancaron988]

I liked Letterman, but he's no Johnny

[@nortonyatzee7254]

Check out the old Dick Cavet show, similar class and wit with great guests.

[@vincentmuscara858]

Johnny Carson was and still is in a class by himself.

[@jamiecrawford8133]

I agree all BS aside the best entertainer of our lifetime. Johnny was incredible.

[@labauer5314]

My brother & I'd stay up to watch the late night greats. From Johnny to Dave, from SNL to Benny.

[@jerrylee8261]

This segment featured Johnny at his best-respectful, interesting, etc. I think Johnny was kinda aloof but he was very friendly toward that gentleman's girlfriend. It makes me respect him even more.

[@JohnBarron-n]

Jimmy Fallon is way better than Johnny Carson.

[@southernsass2937]

How I miss these days! I never missed a show. RIP to all of them ❤

[@mapoijitur1161]

Boy, do I miss Johnny Carson. What a remarkable character Merritt Heaton was, a true American. "Electricity" I love it!

[@Sixstringman]

He was 97 in 1988. He was born in 1891. He was dead ass serious. Crazy to think about.

[@TheRodFarva]

This is what made Johnny Carson a class act. It didn’t matter if it was Frank Sinatra or a 97 year old farmer from Illinois, he treated all the guest’s the same.

[@stevekauffman1866]

Everything these days is so political Really refreshing watching Johnny Class act Love the farmer!

[@chloerodgers692]

@@stevekauffman1866 I was going to say “class act” too but the word “act” I concluded wasn’t accurate. It wasn’t an act…he was real.

[@FayeBailey]

Totally agree.

[@davidshulimson9491]

Carson always made it about the guests, never about himself. Carson was and always will be the greatest.

[@FayeBailey]

He surely did. Todays late night hosts are empty suits compared to Johnny.

[@fredmertz1487]

Johnny Carson was one of a kind. He was a great interviewer, a master off the cuff and his timing and facials were incomparable.

[@grn4nrg]

@Zo 🌻 Yes, he was the Best! He passed at 79 1925-2005

[@jeffbaer5851]

THIS is what made Johnny the best. He CONSTANTLY brought on "real folks," gave them great set-up questions and made them feel like stars. I'm not one of these yammering olds (though I AM getting on in years) who does the "back in my day, TV was funny" garbage. But there is a special place in my heart for the late and great Johnny. He was SO genuine and funny. I miss his show. RIP Johnny.

[@skykingusa]

I couldn't agree more with you. To this day, Johnny is the only celebrity that brought a tear to my eye when I heard of his death. He seemed like such an integral part of my weekly routine what I was growing up.

[@ArmedCyclist]

I agree with yu 100%. Todays show is garbage

[@tolfan4438]

He called them citizen guests

[@bea78tles]

@@skykingusa Great to read your comments. Johnny was part of life back then. What a privilege to have been around during the Johnny Carson show days.

[@johnl5350]

Letterman did too, especially early on. It makes sense since Johnny's production company produced both. I think they we're pretty similar in some ways. Affable on camera, a little distant off it. I think they are both great though.

[@KSfan4ever]

Johnny was a genius interviewer and I love how he treated this lovely charming gentleman with kindness, respect and humor. What a wonderful interview.

[@pockynon]

I have not watched late night since Steve Allen and Johnny Carson - they were so funny and great interviewers - the people on late night now are just not funny! Also, way too political. 😔

[@JDnFL]

Class personified, no cheap shots, no trying to embarrass the gentleman. Absolutely love the fact that he was called "Mr"

[@YA-qj8fx]

I miss the era when people were shown respect by being addressed by Mr., Mrs., Miss, even Ms. Too much familiarity these days.

[@JDnFL]

@@YA-qj8fx I miss those times as well. Now we have kids referring to their teachers by their first name. Kids calling their Aunts and Uncles by their first name, in some cases calling their parents by their first name. Now everything is about the "shock value" embarrassing people etc.

[@jc.938]

That’s so true as my parents were older(Mom 41-Dad 39) when I was born as I was the youngest of 4 children. I was raised to respect elders as I never raised my voice or used profanity in the presence of my parents. Respect was a way of life!

[@qtpysusie54]

A lot said in those two lines. Sure hope there are more buffing ladies and gentlemen out there waiting to help turn the tide. Class has just disappeared. Sure doesn't come with money.

[@parkdigwig3447]

That would have been Dave Letterman that would have embarrassed the man had he been on the Late Show. No Johnny.

[@missymitekite]

Priceless. How wonderful that we still get to visit these classic clips. I miss Johnny. He was a master and no one else even comes close. Really enjoyed this. TY.

[@harborgirl8877]

I agree, I am so tired of the political BS that is spun.

[@brentlawrence5857]

Space shuttle

[@brentlawrence5857]

Space shuttle launch

[@archieolmstead6688]

I totally agree. Late nite TV was fun then.

[@YoBoyMarcus]

@@archieolmstead6688 It sure was. Everything is scripted now and they don't have fun guests like this anymore.

[@even200x]

I am not suprised to see Johnny get 2.1 million views in 2022. Never be another like Johnny Carson.

[@windowboy]

3.3m in 2024

[@garypaquin9571]

Mr. Heaton demonstrated great class and impeccable manners. He repeatedly turned to Ed McMan to include him in the conversation. Most of Mr. Carson’s guests would focus on Johnny and ignore Ed after the handshake. I tried to teach my children and grandkids not to leave anyone out of a conversation.

[@JustinRayeYates]

Including everyone in the conversation is definitely something I have noticed many people overlook. It is very important and I find myself trying to do it all the time. Never realized it until reading this Comment. Very well said. I couldn't agree more.

[@jdelaney9325]

I noted this as well. That’s the way he was brought up. To respect others.

[@salinalancelot4021]

@@JustinRayeYates good

[@morrissnell9766]

Happy

[@bmental7128]

think that is so cool, that you noticed that about mr. heaton interview, and also the consideration and respect he showed his lady friend, peggy taylor. much respect to you also for teaching your children and grandchildren, good basic manners, and respect, and consideration of others. respect to you. chivalry is not dead. may God bless you and your family.

[@vickygray4268]

Johnny really knew how to interview people and make it fun. He was always polite too. Loved him.

[@xrislamore8549]

Hello how are you

[@stevekirkpatrick1612]

Nowadays the only talk shows that feature real people fall into the people's court or Jerry Springer categories. The late night shows now may as well be scripted studio talking points. We'll never see just a regular person without an approved product or message again. It was great to see.

[@michael2305]

That's a true gentleman.

[@raymondchollet3199]

Johny was always a sympathetique person. Trur human. That is true.

[@adamkedrowski7901]

The respect he showed boy George was unprecedented at the time

[@julieclark9173]

I was a nurse for 38 years, just recently retired. Guys like Mr Heaton were my favorite patients, they just loved to chat and talk and laugh. Made my day. One day I took care of a man, about 79, I asked if was allergic to anything and he said "just women!" Well, the second fellow was 85, and I told him "my last fellow was allergic to women, how about you?" He said, "Well, I aint allergic to 'em, but I can't have the sweet ones on account of my diabetes!" He was my all time favorite!

[@magikmissvideos9462]

That’s so great!! My great grandfather was a quiet man. I loved him so much.

[@karenbowser8684]

OMG! I know he’s gone to his great reward, but what a delight he was!

[@sooperdoopercoolguy]

When I was 30, I was absolutely enamored by a 80 year old woman named grace. She was everything her name entailed, gorgeous, and could sing like an Angel. ❤️

[@StrangerHappened]

Julie, do not lose connection to your nurse sisters. Some of those you know are like thirty years younger than you, so they could be taking care of you later.

[@gracereese1993]

Okĺo

[@stevenj9970]

No one comes close to Johnny who could talk to anyone about anything. We are so lucky to be able to watch these now forever! The farmer is such a Charming GENTLEMAN

[@bea78tles]

Well said. Yes.

[@shawnr771]

Johnny's predecessor Jack Parr was also amazing at this.

[@johnl5350]

Plenty come close. There are some talented people around. Johnny's huge advantage was the derth of channels during most of his career. People were more likely to watch someone regularly that didn't fit their politics precisely that way. It's too fractured now to ever have that now.

[@aliceharris1998]

@@shawnr771 Jack Paar was before I started watching late night, but I thought Jay Leno was good also.

[@shawnr771]

@@aliceharris1998 Jack Parr was long before I started watching late night. I have seen clips of his work. He interviewed Fidel Castro in Cuba once. He got people to talk about stuff. There is a clip of Liberace playing piano while Ali is rhyming about what he is going to do in an upcoming fight.

[@JBO3022]

Watching this, I realize how much the world misses men like this, the farmer, and johnny.

[@drumlover1687]

Absolutely true!

[@tompaul2650]

Unfortunately the world gets what it wants. Otherwise, we would all be like that. I have not basically changed in years. I'm old school, no nonsense etc. It sounds cliche but be the change you want.

[@ScotteM]

Took people like this for granted, now that the greatest generation is gone, country is not so great anymore

[@ScotteM]

@Phillip Banes I hope you are right

[@rogfusionkid]

So true, sometimes I think it would have been better to have been born in different times. That guy is a real gem.

[@bobsdiner5967]

I love this. My dad passed away in January at 89 and he would have enjoyed watching this. Today's Seniors are the messengers from the past. SO much to learn. Embrace and learn from them. It's fascinating ❤

[@debbylou5729]

I’ve never met anyone that didn’t want to shoot the messenger

[@kathyh4804]

Definitely! We have lost most of our classy old generations 😢 He was so right when he said the way women USED to dress was glamorous.... not any more sad to say

[@homegown1234]

As a child I listened to the elderly since they had the knowledge and the experience to help the following generation move forward. Now, things are so mixed up because the younger generation feel they know what is best but don't even have a clue because they refuse to listen to their elders and those that have lived longer lives to be fruitful in their days but I always felt "the elderly had the secret of a long life and doing right by God's laws and for that I am ever grateful to the many I listened as a young girl and as I got older listened with an open heart.

[@MeMeDaVinci]

So polite, always turning to engage Ed, also. His stories are priceless. This man is a gem. And his lady friend....And did you all see? Betty White was on the couch! What a show that must have been.

[@victorbunch7725]

Yeah i saw that and i'm surprised she wasn't on her back!!! lol

[@heidimarchant5438]

I noticed her too!

[@lowellarnett3172]

Unappreciated in their own time!

[@drew6194]

@Tippin The Scales Being a little prissy, aren't you?

[@misssummersalt]

@Tippin The Scales She was and she was all the better for it! 💗

[@contenderfortruth]

The beauty of Johnny is that he could have an intelligent conversation with anyone and make it entertaining.

[@dennisdoyle5068]

So we’ll said. Pure Class.

[@cr625]

Johnny Carson had class and style. His ability to be humorous with charm is his lasting signature! Love & Miss You Johnny🤗❤️

[@kenartrip2257]

I always loved Johnny Carson because he had a real interest in regular people. This interview was more entertaining than anything I’ve seen in a long while. I believe it’s because we get bored with some of these shallow celebrities who aren’t fit to hold this gentleman’s coat!

[@PoppysGuitar]

I think these mid westerners brought John back to simple times in Nebraska without booze and drugs and the women and LA hustlers. He honestly appears a little wistful.

[@johnaustin9051]

I believe he made at least one more appearance on Johnny's show.

[@louisel.sinniger2057]

He is right, his lady friend is spunky

[@why-even-try-brotendo]

Good to see Jimmy Fallon carrying on the legacy through class and wit..... 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@johnaustin9051]

@@why-even-try-brotendo Jimmy is as funny and smart as a pimple on Johnny's ass. Fallon SUCKS.

[@bryanessing3344]

This is so beautiful, innocent, and brilliant when things were so much simpler

[@YA-qj8fx]

I don't think things were simpler, people just displayed more dignity..

[@chrishuber8930]

Things were not simpler. People were far more complex, literate, and were far more family oriented.

[@kevinsmith3426]

Yep

[@raulvalladares9004]

30 years since Johnny Carson left The Tonight Show & still can’t get enough of watching old clips!

[@4orrcountry]

I imagine Mr. Heaton reminds many of us of some of the kindly, interesting and amusing older people we knew during our first 20-25 years on the planet. May God continue to bless us by having people like Mr. Heaton in our lives.

[@moaningpheromones]

can you type anything that hasn't got the spam in it?

[@jamiecrawford8133]

Yep a genuinely nice guy

[@timothygeiger8271]

According to the internet, he died about 1 year after making that appearance on Johnny Carson.

[@alabarjhoni9742]

what a bizarre comment. how many people meet people in their 90s? you imagined wrong buddy. are you talking about seniors? we are always meeting people .. your observation/comment is so fucking strange.

[@timothygeiger8271]

@@alabarjhoni9742 just why is it strange? Just because you don't get out much, doesn't mean others don't either. By the way, my dad is 95 years old.

[@flashtheoriginal]

Johnny Carson. The King. Slick yet sincere, probing yet respectful, witty yet genuine. In the tv chat show context, a nice man, total professional

[@RonTavalinProgBassist]

you summed up Johnny's talents very well

[@djzarrick]

There will never be another.

[@JeepTJWheelin]

What a gentleman, a class act. God bless him and his family.

[@cindyj5522]

I am from North Central Illinois and grew up on a family farm in the 60's/70's. This man exemplifies the character, humor and friendliness of people from that place and time. Even now, Illinois farmers are more genuine and friendly than so many other places in the Great Plains. No bullshit, no pretense, no suspicion or meanness. One of the things I miss about home.

[@chrisretired5379]

Right on, Cindy J 💝💝💝

[@rwaitt14153]

Merritt exemplifies the kind of personality who sit and hold court at the spot the retired farmers congregate at to drink coffee and tell lies in every rural town in America. If you stop in slow down and grab a cup you can be entertained like this every day. This is what they quit the busy farming life to do and they are very good at their new jobs.

[@spacelemur7955]

The farmers in NW Ohio are also salt of the earth.

[@vinoman123]

Well said, as a resident of Northern Illinois, it sorely miss those people and times

[@MariaBareiss]

Cindy, my father and his parents were midwesterners, and this gentleman reminds me of two or three of my elder relatives.

[@jeffreylonnon781]

Here’s Johnny Carson, a universal celebrity and multi millionaire, just being a completely humble and respectful equal channeling his Nebraska roots. There’s a piece of me that senses Johnny enjoyed people like Mr. Heaton just as much or more than he did the big tIme celebrities he had on his show.

[@bobkain350]

I think Johnny enjoyed the Mr. Heaton's more than the celebrities because they were real people. And they made for a better show.

[@michellescukanec2359]

@@bobkain350 🙌🙌🙌

[@michellescukanec2359]

I really miss him. My parents watched him just about every night when we were kids and we could as well because the content was always safe even though it was entertaining for the adults. Difficult act to follow that's for sure.

[@robinlanier6886]

Exactly !

[@JackycClark]

I know he always enjoyed Better Midler . For the life of me I can't think of another favorite .

[@3N2sw]

You never again see stuff like this today. Such class.

[@marynichols-m4z]

Your so right❤️

[@samiam93]

There has never been a better interviewer than johnny carson. He was charming, clever, funny. His timing superb. Nobody compares.

[@mistermusturd6402]

Outrageous! God bless Merritt. His timing was impeccable.

[@ryankelly2851]

OMG, this was a joy to watch from start to finish. Such a gentle man with a great sense of humour. Rest easy, Mr Heaton🙏

[@rickyb8636]

Couldn't help but notice Betty White sitting there at the end. She and Johnny are two legends we will miss forever.

[@strahljd]

Mr. Heaton couldn't help but notice either 👀 👀 👀

[@Ryan-on5on]

If I'm doing my maths right, Betty White would've been born in the same year (1922) as Mr. Heaton's youngest child!

[@honkytonkinson9787]

I feel like we’ve stopped honoring the elderly in the USA in the last 30 years. I love listening to older people’s stories, especially since my grandparents are gone

[@wingwalker27]

Our elderly now are being slammed to the sidewalks of NYC by cowardly trash.

[@kevinmontgomery1383]

Honky Tonkinson Today they don't say sir out of reverence. It sounds like a put down. All in the inflection.

[@gino423]

Great reply sir....we all gonna get old if your lucky no guarantees

[@just4music687]

Agree! xoxo

[@ItsNotMe621]

Exactly right. Now we have a Texas Lt. Governor suggesting we let the elderly die of COVID-19 to protect the economy. Money over human beings. Isn't Capitalism great?

[@casssmith2610]

I love how Johnny genuinely enjoyed his non celebrity guests!! I miss Johnny so much, no one can ever come close to replacing him.

[@barryfox8145]

We went and saw it taped one night. As funny in between taping as during the taping. He was one of a kind.

[@joycee5493]

I still miss him too. No One else comes close.

[@drumlover1687]

He was the greatest, all of the so called late night hosts combined don't possess a 1/4 of Johnny's talent and charm.

[@johnoneill4483]

Really? You should have spoken to joan rivers

[@mikeh497]

Better than today's Woke political crap!

[@benji.B-side]

What a man, a fine example of how to grow old with wonderful attitude and humour! Loved this interview.

[@SM75j]

Amen to that!

[@paulodelorios8482]

Something about people who's close to the Earth! Good energy!

[@lucilledion5344]

Mr. Heaton was a breath of fresh air !! Delightful, amusing and authentic...Thank you for your presence...

[@TheCybertiger9]

Ah yes the GOLDEN YEARS of late night TV. I was depressed when Johnny left us. Things were never the same. Thanks Mr. Carson for bringing joy into our lives.

[@jamesclapp6832]

Johnny always hits a home run. Makes his guests feel so comfortable.

[@sheiladawg1664]

Comfortable enough to admit you're two timing your girlfriends!

[@debbybowman3490]

What a cool man at 97 years! He had a great sense of humor and the audience loved him😘. So did I 💥💥

[@womandela7225]

Born in 1890 or so! Amazing.

[@harveymoldofsky5662]

​.r@@womandela7225

[@GlenCollins-fp5in]

Hi Debby

[@GlenCollins-fp5in]

How are you doing ?

[@johni6138]

Johnny was the absolute best interviewer.. and there will never be another like him...i miss him

[@ithakra]

Mr Heaton was more interesting to listen to than any guest that has been on late night TV in 20 years..

[@pam0626]

So, so true. He had nothing to promote, no stupid skits, just plain conversation.

[@johnl5350]

That's pretty doubtful. It's a logical fallacy to assume the old is always good and anything new stinks. Johnny was great and there's been some good stuff since then and even now. He really had it down by this point in his career, but he did plenty of bits and comedic stunts. He was a funny guy doing a show that fit him best. You can say the same about some of his contemporaries and current guys as well.

[@strongsmarthappy5970]

Right ! The electricity story killed me ! 😂😂We're lucky he reconsidered their invitation, he was great.

[@sherry3935]

Made me smile 😊

[@kathleenirish]

@@johnl5350 there is NOTHING on air late night right now that is worth watching. The worst ‘woke’ unfunny dreck ever

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Priceless when the guy said “ my son is the boss !!” ….. he’s 78 !!!!!!

[@ItsNotMe621]

I loved Johnny Carson. He was so sweet and kind to kids, the elderly and animals and one of the funniest people on the planet. I have a set of The Johnny Carson Tonight Show DVDs and periodically watch them. He's still hysterically funny. He still makes me happy. Great, great comedian.

[@nunyaflippingbidness]

I loved this interview so much. Watching Johnny enjoy talking with this gentleman farmer and his lady friend was so entertaining. He was very respectful and truly loved their conversation together. It was frosting on the cake seeing Betty White on the same show at the end. RIP Betty, you were the best!

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

I saw her too! 🥰

[@seannewoods2296]

Hahaha, did he lose the girl back home? Hehehehe. That was funny.

[@asacarrick1440]

She had the same sparkle, it's clear that they would get along

[@kathrynbillinghurst188]

I really enjoyed Mr Heaton and his funny comments, even though he’s not trying… just being real and honest! So adorable ☺️

[@robinlanier6886]

Absolutely adorable. I can't believe he was 97!!

[@markd6634]

I wish i could go back to this era of television. Nothing can match these nowadays. Just GREAT tv!

[@AjgCat-qw3md]

I agree 100 💯 percent

[@Stlonewolf]

Still the king of late show comedy and no one has come close!

[@zacharyjarrells7084]

I looked him up on Find A Grave. He lived another year and 2 months after this. Died April 1989 at the age of 98. Get this, his wife passed in 1972 at the age of 87. They had 5 children, the 78 year old he speaks of lived to be 92. His other children lived to be 82, 88, and 93! One of his daughters passed at the age of 48. He also had 7 siblings: 1 died at 7, which is so sad, 2 died in their 70s, 2 died in their 80s, and the other 2 died in their 90s. His father lived to be 95 and his mother lived to be 87. A lot of longevity in that family!

[@jamesaritchie1]

Well, they say the secret to living a long life is to pick your parents carefully.

[@samuellp1146]

@@jamesaritchie1 whaaaaaat???How is that possible before conception😆????

[@pamelajohnson7813]

Thank you for sharing that information! I've seen this clip before and Mr. Heaton was a joy to listen to! President McKinley died in 1901. Amazing life span he had, to remember news of McKliney's death as a boy and then to be on the Johnny Carson show near the end of his life! I sure do miss Johnny Carson! Btw, Find-A-Grave is a really interesting site to join. I kept going back from my grandparents to their parents and so on. You can leave info on your relatives grave also. I found someone that had a pic of our greatgreatgrandmother! She had posted her email address & I sent her a message and we had interesting conversations & exchanged info we would've never known about otherwise! It is really a great tool to learn about family history. There are obits and comments usually on the individual. If you use it, leave a comment on the site. You never know if future generations will be searching for knowledge about you & your family one day.

[@djstarr-lowery4047]

Thank you for sharing all that. My children often accuse me of "being so curious" seriously I should have a driver. Because I can't drive and look over all the things that I need to see

[@zacharyjarrells7084]

I’m just a curious person, lol. When something peeks my interest, I have to research it.

[@JAY-wb2fv]

This is one of the best clips from Johnny Carson. Mr. Heaton is a delight. The respect displayed by Johnny is rarely seen today. Simpler times. Rest in peace. 🙏

[@ermagerdmuffins]

You would expect no less from Carson to not only shake hands but also to assist Mr. Heaton up the steps as he did. Class all around.

[@phuebner45]

Yes, Carson was a very classy guy. I noticed that too. Very nice.

[@ermagerdmuffins]

@@phuebner45 My stepfather went to one of his shows once. Said that during breaks, Carson would light a cigarette and walk through (and sit with) the audience just talking and telling jokes.

[@phuebner45]

@@ermagerdmuffins I remember (sort of) when they would drink and smoke on air! Wouldn’t wait till commercial. Ahhh good times. 😄

[@dennisgallagher]

@@phuebner45 Of course he might still be around if he hadn't.

[@carycomic1954]

@@dennisgallagher Sad, but true. Johnny ultimately passed from emphysema-related causes.

[@yonahlemieux6719]

Johnny Carson was a class act, all entertainment and no political BS, there hasn’t been another late night host that comes even close to him, he is sorely missed.

[@silvergirl7810]

Refreshing right? Now it’s all political activism- that’s all they do!

[@susanolson3611]

I always wished that Tim Allen had taken over the Tonight Show after Johnny. They both had a kind sense of humor. Jay Leno's jokes seemed a little mean spirited.

[@silvergirl7810]

@@susanolson3611 boy, they’ve sure put Tim through the ringer- anyone who even slightly resembles a different line of thought gets outed

[@sunshinebutterfliesandrose1003]

@@susanolson3611 Tim Allen? O my gosh no.

[@susanolson3611]

@@silvergirl7810 you are right about that!

[@nelsonoliva2119]

I remember the 70's and I remember Johnny as a kid. Im 53 now but I still cant help watching these clips. Carson was first class. There has never been anyone like him. Wherever you are Johnny, Thank you sir, for the example and the memories.

[@cynforrest]

Marvelous. Priceless. Loved this interview. Miss you, Johnny. No one else brings the laughter and fun like you do!!

[@kevdebable]

Johnny Carson is such a great interviewer. He helped put this man at ease. Excellent segment!

[@letitrest4662]

Johnny Carson was a master. He had class and a great sense of humor. Really a fine example of the generation.

[@karlakor]

It is so nice to hear such a courteous and pleasant exchange between people as was heard in this interview. The lady was also very gracious and kind with Johnny Carson. It is such a contrast to the incivility one encounters today.

[@fsherman898]

It warms my heart to see these outstanding old men reminisce. Real standup guys. RIP!

[@ruthlewis5311]

I was downstairs after bedtime one night when I was ten and my mom let me watch this bit with her. It's the only time I ever saw Johnny Carson's show, so it always stuck in my memory. I remember both of us getting a good laugh over this gentleman, especially the "kids these days" line. I still refer to that as one of the funniest things I've ever heard and oddly enough, it showed up in my KZbin feed today. What a lovely surprise this was. ❤

[@movingonandup322]

What a lovely gentleman.So classy, gracious and humble, and also quick, witty and with a great sense of humor too! No wonder why he lived so long! Thanks for the upload!

[@analogdaniel]

Absolutely wonderful. I'm grinning from ear to ear. He reminds me of my grandfather who was born in 1899 and died just weeks before his 100th birthday. He grew up in rural Ukraine and didn't see a car until his late teens. Saw the invention of the plane, radio, phonograph, television, computer, space flight...no other generation in history ever witnessed so much technological advances than theirs. They were made from a different cloth.

[@frankconley6321]

My grandfather was born in 1895. So many things he saw in his life. Growing up on a rural farm he didn't see an airplane until he was almost 40, and watched the moon landing. He didn't have indoor plumbing until the 1950s and his first phone was in the 1980s.

[@larsonfamilyhouse]

Horse and buggy to electric car

[@PrussianFrost]

My great grandpa told us a story of his uncle coming over when my grandpa was a teenager and telling everyone in the local store about seeing a car for the first time in rural Michigan. "Thirty-Thirtty five miles per hour, just as fast as ya wanna go!" in an Irish immigrant accent. Always cracks me up to this day remembering that.

[@Cottonwood420]

My grandfather was born in 1899 too. Was in merchant marines. Joined air force WWl. Flew planes over France. He crash landed couple times. He wrote a poem about times he almost died. Those crashes were in it. Used to love talking with him.

[@PrussianFrost]

@@Cottonwood420 Do you still have a copy of the poem?

[@JohnDoe-gj4dv]

I miss Johnny Carson........... He kept America in Focus...........

[@billmeriwether605]

How can you not love this guy! What a genuine hard working, decent, moral gentleman!

[@willemhendriks1905]

Farmer Merritt is such a treasure! My Granpa was an old skool farmer, tough as nails, but a kind and honest man. Survived 2 world wars, buried 2 wives and a girlfriend, raised 6 daughters and a son, and just kept on trucking. I miss you, big man...

[@robertblake3251]

Heres Johnny

[@cynthiahusband106]

How charming Johnny was, just charismatic , amazing he could talk to the big stars and a wonderful gentleman like farmer Merritt , there ( has been said a million times before) will never be another man like Johnny Carson , he was brilliant but that charm , that Carson charm will never be forgotten it’s oct 2023 , Carson will never be forgotten. RIP dearest Johnnie❤️

[@hull5768]

Wow! What a life! Amazing

[@willemhendriks1905]

Yeah, they don't build 'em like Carson anymore.@@cynthiahusband106

[@93Jubilee]

When one of my great-aunts was about 102 (they lived long!), she was asked how many children she had, she said, "Children!? I don't have any children! All I have are these old people around calling me mom!"

[@jamesgale2147]

That must be one ofthe best comments of all time

[@itguy9996]

I'm amazed that Johnny spent 15 minutes with a guest no one has heard of, made it entertaining and funny. He brought out the best in his guests.

[@spikeoac4248]

Also give credit to the entertaining nature of the farmer, no matter how entertaining Johnny is he can’t fully make up for a lackluster guest

[@guychristopher187]

I'm a retired IT Guy - University of Illinois Urbana' 1988 - 2011

[@shac9131]

He obviously liked him a whole lot or else would have shortened the interview to do props or something. Celebs are only given x amount of time because they're getting paid to be on the show

[@petegobeckli1386]

@@guychristopher187 CHAMPAIGN! Downstate ILLINOIS.

[@robbinkokinos5390]

Johnny Carson frequently had guests like this and it was always entertaining because he did treat every guest like they were special.

[@annew8365]

What a lovely man, Mr. Heaton. He reminds me of my great-uncles (now deceased)- witty, plain-spoken, hard-working…Bless his memory.

[@ub748]

Absolutely fantastic. I watched this and wondered how society could lose track of such wonderful values and inspiration. In the news today I watched Will Smith slap someone on the Oscars. Yes, we are truly seeing the end of what once made this country so special, people like Merritt Heaton and Johnny Carson.

[@briansd2772]

COTD!

[@richardvervoorn6626]

Thanks for your’take’ on losing the values we used to hold so dear. The Will Smith thing is a stark indication of where show ‘biz’ folks have fallen dearly from grace…

[@kirbygene]

I love how he turns to look at Ed too. Very polite-- not wanting to exclude him.

[@mj24672]

I’m 75. We were raised not to turn our back on anyone when speaking. Children and grownups had more manners back then. Now you’re shocked if someone holds the door open for you or offers an old person a seat on the bus. My children learned from watching me.

[@michaelobrien5958]

Great stuff from Johnny and gang as always. Miss this great humor. No politics or vile junk.

[@cpt444]

This is without a doubt one of Johnny’s Absolute Best interviews. So touching their interactions

[@Boomer715]

Respect for your elders! Kindness and decency... Johnny Carson was a class act!

[@A_friend_of_Aristotle]

Mr. Merritt Heaton is now immortalized by electricity...and the internet. I grew up on a farm in a different state...farmers are pretty much the same everywhere, though. Salt of the earth people. And honest.

[@022171]

Johnny could engage with heads of state, movie stars, and a random old farmer. And everything in between. That's what made him the best.

[@mariaorsic9763]

Exactly!!!!! The real king!

[@RTKFilms]

What a wonderful timepiece for the Heaton family. I'm willing to bet he'd be tickled to know that his moment in time is still going on to this day

[@ChristoMac]

Watching this makes you realize how quickly Life passes by. Johnny was on top of the World going through life when he recorded this episode, and now all 3 on set have passed on. Be Grateful in Spite of Your Suffering Because in a blink you'll be gone and may never know you were ever here in the first place, God Bless Everyone!

[@rickkelley4618]

Did you notice the other guest who was sitting on the couch next to Ed at the very end of the video?? Go back and look again. I won’t spoil it

[@kevinmcdonald6477]

@@rickkelley4618 It sure looks like Betty White. R.I.P. Betty. This interview with the farmer gentleman was a great time capsule of how great Johnny was as an interviewer and entertainer. Quite a contrast to realize how private he was off set and had a fairly small circle of close friends. Also for all the jokes he made over the years about THE NBC commissary, Johnny actually brown bagged his lunch everyday! He may have been cheaper than Jack Benny!

[@lolledopke]

He was in his 60s, and this was filmed almost 35 years ago...

[@LeaMessenger]

Absolutely. And here we are in 2022 already talking about the ending times and the departure or Harpazo with Christ.

[@oldgranddad6471]

Thanks for your comments. If you get this message I've had a little break through reading your comments. ty

[@bigal1337]

That just made me have a good feeling! You don’t get that much these days! A good ole wholesome conversation! Johnny was the best and thank you to your grandfather!

[@yellowdogdelta661]

Johnny was a true gentleman. He didn’t poke fun of people like todays talk show hosts.

[@dentonweiss3642]

Very true. Jimmy Kimmel wouldn’t know how to carry on a conversation with a farmer.

[@mark685]

Kimmel would mock the farmer

[@middleamerican9022]

Yet, here you are insulting today's hosts. What a hypocritical fool you are.

[@michaelh7437]

@@middleamerican9022 gotta give respect to receive it

[@nathanlenneman9987]

@@middleamerican9022 The only way they would be a hypocrite is if they were late night talk show host themselves.

[@margeryfranko1850]

Thank you Merritt Heaton of Illinois, for changing your mind and coming on the show. I have learned important stuff from you. Your heart and personality are just so lovely. If I could, I would give you the biggest heartfelt hug, full of love and gratitude. Sir, I am and prayerfully, always will be a heartfelt hugger, to humanity 💜💙🙏🏾💚💛

[@chasbo25]

"We would see their Ankle!" Priceless, this man was a gem.

[@jakem.6359]

Have to say probably one of the best "interviews" I've seen on The Tonight Show. Everything sure was a lot better back then....thanks for the Memories.

[@dm0065]

Johnny makes this look like anybody could do this, but this kinda thing is why he was the master. He always manages to make his guest seem like the funniest person on Earth for ten minutes, and thats not always easy.

[@Rob_Kates]

Not everyone can do it. Look at all the late night hosts who tried and failed.

[@lorirarich1875]

Johnny was one of few or none others, who would take a local or old character and just put them on. He also knew a lot about subjects not just magician. Lately there is just celebs talking about each other. Blah blah.

[@elisevautour6292]

What a sweetheart this gentleman is. 🌞💕 God how I miss Johnny Carson. He is the one and only bar none. 💜

[@anthonylucchese6254]

Much enjoyed interview with Johnny Carson and Merritt Heaton one of the oldest farmers in Illinois from Tulon Il. American farmers are my heroes they do back breaking work and provide the food for us. God Bless them and all they do!!! Anthony Joseph Lucchese

[@leoaguirre2261]

Johnny was a genius interviewing people from all walks of life. He was very polite to his guests.

[@SharonEmery-c2p]

God bless the souls of these wonderful men! Johnny Carson was a genius on stage and a “common” man with a love for any people. And when I see Mr. Heaton,even though I never met him, I can see my grandfather being just like Mr. Heaton. Just a common man with love for family and people!

[@johnmoser2689]

Johnny always knew how to gently guide guests to the best ends .... there's never been a show this good since

[@edithbannerman4]

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

[@paulpitt52]

How nice that Johnny brought both the gentleman, and his “lady friend” out at the end. Class act!

[@jamiecrawford8133]

Johnny was the epitome of class. I remember a story in our local paper prolly 30-35 years ago when Johnny's kindergarten teacher turned 100 he flew back to Norfolk Nebraska to spend the day with her. Just a great guy.

[@Clayton-kf3su]

I have watched and rewatched this so often. 30+ what a wonderful man and interview this was. Mr. Heaton was so humble and genuine. This type of programming seems to be a thing of the past. Anyway, this still brings me joy and many smiles.

[@anthonyjona7779]

This was a better than great. I wish I realized at the time how fortunate i was to have Johnny and company for all those years. No one, and I mean no one comes close to Johnny Carson since he retired.

[@jamiecrawford8133]

We really were lucky to see him as long as we did. You truly don't know what you've got until it's gone. Today's late night TV sucks.

[@deanmorgan7011]

We had a hill farmer here in wales where I live and he died at 101 years old, he kept working until he was 98, he would never use the farm land rover he'd always walk....and he was a character...

[@toddaulner5393]

Lost both my parents had dementia. Lost my Dad a year ago and I care for my Mom as a caregiver. Having a sharp mind is something to be grateful for.

[@kkampy4052]

This is where Johnny excelled. He never made fun of or talked down to guests like this. He was truly and genuinely interested in what he had to say.

[@chocolatetownforever7537]

What a great job by Mr. Heaton. At the time of this taping, there was NO BETTER compliment on television than Johnny Carson having you for a second segment. Well done Mr. Heaton. You were awesome.

[@mikewrasman5103]

Most definitely!

[@1CathyHendrix]

This has put a huge smile on my face. What a wonderful man! Such a great sense of humor! Really enjoyed this~!

[@johnwhoissavedbygrace9975]

If these were still how talk shows were made, I’d actually watch one. I’m 32 and there isn’t a single talk show, not a one, that’s worth my time. This was pure enjoyment

[@Lexicologist1971]

He was awesome! From him, I learned something can't be VERY unique or MORE unique. It is either unique or it isn't. It is an absolute term and can't be magnified. It stands alone.

[@Tony-112]

I enjoyed Craig Ferguson , but other than that ,nah.

[@toodlypip77]

Johnny was the best.

[@christopherg9806]

@@Tony-112 I never watch late night TV, but have caught some of Craig Ferguson's clips on KZbin and he really is quite funny. Super quick on his feet and witty.

[@stevekirkpatrick1612]

What's not to love about tightly regimented talking points strictly on topic with a movie or album release though?

[@davidanderson_surrey_bc]

It's good to know that, despite all the vacuous, vain, loud, vulgar, self-serving guests that have appeared on the popular talk shows in the 21st century, we can still watch Johnny Carson interview some nonagenarian farmer from Illinois and enjoy those 16-1/2 minutes more. Thanks for posting.

[@oughtssought1198]

Johnny never had vacuous, vain, loud, vulgar, self-serving guests??? Hmmmmm.

[@LK-bz9sk]

What a delightful guest. It was heartwarming to watch this. I miss people like him and I miss Johnny. The world got messed up since then.

[@walkerhawes2200]

The degree of which I miss Johnny Carson is immeasurable. A class act and the epitome of what a professional and celebrity should be. I can remember staying up late with my mother so we could watch him and I’ll never forget how mad my mom would get when someone else like Joan Rivers would host. She would almost just tell me to go to bed and turn off the tv. Most of the time is was just a threat but she would genuinely be upset Johnny wasn’t there.