Top 20 Funniest Moments in Talk Show History

Top-20-Funniest-Moments-in-Talk-Show-History

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most hilarious highlights that occurred on a talk.

#20: Steve Martin Almost Leaves
“The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” (1962-92)
This comedian is always guaranteed to make people laugh when he is a guest on a talk show. For this 1978 appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” Steve Martin leaves the interview early for an apparent rehearsal. The actor tries to sound impressive like other celebrities, but it all ends up being a setup. Martin comes back with his best crying routine in a hilarious twist. Carson clearly loves the entire bit, playing along with his guest’s amusing antics. It’s especially funny to watch a grown man start acting like a child that needs to be consoled.

#19: Tom Holland Dances for Madonna
“The Graham Norton Show” (2007-)
Even famous actors have trouble talking with other celebrities, as this 2018 Graham Norton clip shows. When Tom Holland describes an exchange with Madonna, he mentions an awkward situation at a nightclub. To top it all off, the actor’s friend told the singer that Holland could dance well. This absurd event sounds like a nightmare as Holland describes his unimpressive moves. Despite our secondhand embarrassment, we can’t help but laugh along as he also discusses his quick exit. The only thing missing is an actual demonstration of his dance performance. The “Spider-Man” star couldn’t be more relatable here, entertaining us with his ridiculous and horrifying tale.

#18: Dick Cavett Tells off Norman Mailer
“The Dick Cavett Show” (1969-75)
Welcoming two rivals to his talk program, Dick Cavett presided over a war of words between Gore Vidal and Norman Mailer. The latter guest is so testy that he also goes after the host, having already taken verbal shots at the others. This exchange then prompts one of Cavett’s funniest lines. The clever comeback is especially memorable, leaving Mailer momentarily speechless. You’ll either be laughing or cheering along with the audience after Cavett’s response. With a killer ad-lib, the presenter course-corrects this interview and gives the angry author a taste of his own medicine.

#17: Kicking Flavor Flav
“The Eric Andre Show” (2012-)
You never know what to expect on this Adult Swim program. Eric André keeps Public Enemy’s Flavor Flav on his toes, reminding everyone of his reputation for bizarre and gross-out humor. It all builds up until the confused guest endures the wrath of Hannibal Buress. The sidekick throws a kick that ends the segment in style. While it might be doctored for effect, the wild moment isn’t any less funny. André and Buress’ unique brand of hospitality is perfectly exemplified here. The sound effects and editing only make this more effective, giving the show its trademark surrealism.

#16: Andy Kaufman Panhandles in the Audience
“The David Letterman Show” (1980)
Combining performance art and comedy, Andy Kaufman was a singular performer in every way. This 1980 appearance of him on “The David Letterman Show” is an excellent example of his unique style and ability to let awkward comedy intensify. Coughing and staring, Kaufman tells an extended tale about his personal and financial setbacks. This all leads up to the darkly comic conclusion where he asks the audience for money. Not only does he have the audacity to beg for money, he also enters the crowd to panhandle. It’s gleefully absurd yet disturbing in a way that only this comedian could pull off.

#15: Roller Coaster Ride with Kevin Hart
“The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)
Not everybody loves roller coasters. Kevin Hart definitely falls into that category, very reluctantly joining Jimmy Fallon for this 2014 segment. The two of them strap into the front seat of a coaster. Fallon jokes with Hart as the two prepare to drop, with the latter comedian ready to scream. The guest loses it as the ride throws him for a few surprising dips and turns. The “Jumanji” star then freaks out throughout the experience. If you remember waiting for your first big ride, this will bring back that worried feeling with some major laughs. If the first round isn’t enough, the two keep riding in a shocking climax that rivals their journey into a haunted house.

#14: The Fly
“The Graham Norton Show” (2007-)
During this episode of the British show, three comedic guests make the most of an unexpected situation. An insect starts buzzing around the couch, inspiring Steve Carell to reveal his fly-swatting technique. Later in the interview, Chris O’Dowd takes a sip of his drink only to find a surprise inside. It’s such a chaotic turn of events that you’d almost think it was scripted. If you aren’t completely grossed out like Kristen Wiig, you’ll be laughing along with everyone else. O’Dowd’s play-by-play turns the hilarious moment into a dramatic and engaging story. At the end, he drops the fly on the table and his fellow guests even hold an impromptu funeral.

#13: Conan Spends NBC’s Money
“The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien” (2009-10)
Even though his run was short-lived, Conan O’Brien had lots of fun during his time on “The Tonight Show.” This included jokes about spending NBC’s money to do whatever he wanted. Taking this premise to the max, O’Brien reveals all of the outrageous purchases the program made including a Bugatti dressed as a mouse. It’s all played for laughs in a monologue at the network’s literal expense. For those that didn’t approve of NBC’s treatment of the comedian, this feels like the best kind of comedic revenge. You can tell the presenter is truly embracing the comedy that comes from not having to care anymore.

#12: Tom Cruise Makes James Corden Skydive
“The Late Late Show with James Corden” (2015-23)
After Tom Cruise challenged him to jump out of a plane, James Corden reluctantly took the actor up on his offer. This created one of the more memorable moments from “The Late Late Show” in this 2018 episode. During a tense build-up, Cruise tries to prepare the host with some rigorous training. Their odd-couple chemistry keeps this whole segment funny until the big jump. Corden is clearly scared out of his mind and his guest is easy going during the flight. As the presenter jumps, you can tell he’s more than terrified, ultimately making for some incredibly entertaining television.

#11: Zach Questions President Obama’s Legacy
“Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis” (2008-18)
On this offbeat talk show, the host interrogates people next to the titular plants. One of his most memorable moments came in 2014 when he welcomed President Barack Obama. The fact that he is interviewing a head of state doesn’t faze the host or prompt him to hold back. Galifianakis asks a funny and pointed joke about Obama’s legacy as a Black president. The line itself is bold and hilarious, but it also inspires a fantastic comeback from Obama. In this unforgettable moment, “Between Two Ferns” shows that even a powerful politician can make fun of themselves on such a comedic program.

#10: Dave Teaches a Life Lesson
“Late Night with David Letterman” (1982-93)
During his initial late night run, David Letterman proved that he was a subversive host with many comedic talents. This particular short from 1983 showcases his ability to parody after-school specials. He advises a younger boy that has just had his favorite program canceled, showing that there’s hope even after losing something you love. It’s a well-written idea that mimics the popular and overdramatic format of many educational videos. Letterman’s pitch perfect performance reveals that he can act just as well as he can host. The self-serious tone makes the premise funnier, mocking the plight of canceled TV series.

#9: Nathan Fielder’s Staged Story
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (2003-)
Nathan Fielder is considered by many to have one of the best and brightest comic minds of his generation. In this 2017 Jimmy Kimmel appearance, the comedian proves that he can deliver on an extensive and mind-bending premise. He tells a dramatic story about luggage mix-up, a mysterious baggie, and a police stop. It all sounds so detailed and naturally funny, but Fielder is harboring a secret. He actually orchestrated all of the events in an elaborate prank. This resulted in him being able to tell an exciting anecdote and not have to lie about it. Both shocking you and making you laugh, the guest completely pulls the rug out from under your expectations.

#8: “Dennis Quaid Is Here”
“The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (2003-23)
When her show sets up a hidden camera in a coffee shop, Ellen DeGeneres enlists Dennis Quaid to have some fun in this 2008 episode. The actor has to say whatever the host tells him and the results are hilarious. Quaid’s opening line in particular sells the entire bit as he makes a grand introduction. Willing to make fun of himself, the guest delivers a goofy line that sets up a funny exchange inside the coffee shop. This continues as the actor orders and interacts with the unsuspecting people inside. It also shows that Quaid has a natural comic presence, taking each of DeGeneres’ prompts in stride.

#7: Albert Brooks Does Pet Tricks Over the Phone
“Late Night with David Letterman” (1982-93)
Rob Reiner was technically the main guest on this 1985 “Late Night with David Letterman” episode, but it was his friend and fellow comedian Albert Brooks that stole the show. Letterman and Reiner call up Brooks for some laughs over the phone. The call-in guest offers up his variation of the “Stupid Pet Tricks” segment, but without the necessary visuals. It’s a hilarious subversion of the classic skit with the additional guest speaking for his own pet. Even when he’s not in the same studio, Brooks can offer up a funny concept and get a big reaction.

#6: Sarah Silverman’s Music Video Surprise
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (2003-)
On this 2008 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” Sarah Silverman had a surprise for the host, who she was then romantically involved with. The actress shows a music video that she made with the host’s rival Matt Damon. Not only did she write a song, she also claims to have had a relationship with Damon. This hilarious video entertains with fun choreography and high production values. The only thing better than the surprise is Kimmel’s stunned reaction afterwards, ratcheting up the tension of the fake feud. The conflict between Damon and Kimmel always provides maximum entertainment value.

#5: O’Brien vs. Colbert vs. Stewart
“Late Night with Conan O’Brien” (1993-2009)
At one point in the 2000s, Conan O’Brien, Stephen Colbert, and Jon Stewart found themselves in a bitter feud over Mike Huckabee. In 2008, the “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” host was confronted on his show by the two Comedy Central comedians, leading to a hilarious and over-the-top fight, spilling out into the hallways outside O’Brien’s studio. Fans of pro wrestling will enjoy many of the moves on display here. There were also some spectacular falls down a flight of stairs, making a great skit that much more exciting. It’s fair to say that there’s never been a funnier or more impressive late night brawl.

#4: Nicole Kidman Reveals Her Crush on Jimmy Fallon
“The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)
Welcoming Nicole Kidman to his show, Jimmy Fallon might’ve thought he would have a typical interview. This 2015 segment proved to be anything but ordinary after a shocking revelation. Kidman recounts a time she went to Fallon’s apartment years ago, with the added announcement that she liked him. The presenter looks completely taken aback by the news before asking for further clarification. With his life flashing before his eyes, the comedian questions everything in a hilarious moment. The audience’s reaction alone shows how much the TV personality fumbled the ball. It’s both funny and somewhat relatable to hear both people realizing they completely misunderstood each other.

#3: Norm Macdonald’s Spelling Skills
“Late Night with Conan O’Brien” (1993-2009)
Norm Macdonald was one of the most enjoyable and chaotic guests on talk shows. This 1997 interview on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” showcases the comic perfectly. It starts when Courtney Thorne-Smith mentions working with Carrot Top in a movie and inspires Macdonald to react. After a back and forth, the host sets up Macdonald to do what he does best. It all builds to the comedian offering up his own spelling for the film “Chairman of the Board.” The guest’s quick wit prompts one of the funniest comebacks in talk-show history. This could’ve been an ordinary interview, but the “Dirty Work” star transforms it into comedic gold.

#2: Emma Stone Shows Off During a Lip-Sync Battle
“The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)
Many people have tried lip syncing with Jimmy Fallon, but Emma Stone might be the best of them all. Her song choices are surprising and undeniably funny, from Blues Traveler to DJ Khaled. Stone gives such a dedicated performance here, showing that she can bring the same intensity to lip syncing that she brought to her Oscar-winning performances. You’ll likely be as hypnotized as Fallon is while watching her. If you need another reminder of her talent, the actress blows everyone away with her imitation of Ludacris. She almost turns the concept of lip syncing into an Olympic sport, drawing laughs and amazed reactions. The ongoing segment is among Fallon’s finest bits alongside his “History of Rap” skits.

#1: Axe-Throwing with Ed Ames
“The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” (1962-92)
No tribute to “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” is complete without this segment. When Ed Ames and Carson try to throw axes, the former lands one in an unfortunate zone. The host milks the moment until he comes back with a hilarious one-liner. With the initial surprise and the subsequent joke, this is the exact combination of events that make for great comedy. Considering how much more restrained TV was in 1965, it’s amazing the sequence made it on the air. It’s also a showcase of the presenter’s perfect timing, proving that Carson knows how and when to offer up the perfect ad-lib.

Did we forget another hilarious talk show moment? Let us know in the comments below.