Garry Shandling’s Network Television Debut on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson’

Garry Shandling, the influential comedian, writer, and actor has died at the age of 66. He starred in many movies and television shows but before that would happen, he was an up-and-coming comedian who made his network television debut performing standup on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson in 1981.

“I had a great day,” Shandling began his set. “I went to the bank earlier today. And, uh, have you gotten your free pen yet?” He then held up a pen with the security chain still attached. “These are free. You just yank these things and they pop right out. I got a desk calendar too.”

Another standout moment from his set was talking about time he spent with a friend’s child. “The baby’s crawling around on the carpet and this baby loads up his diaper, you know?” he said to laughter. “And I’m sitting there, you know, and the mother comes up and says, ‘Isn’t that adorable? Brandon made a gift for daddy.’ Now, I’m figuring this guy has to be easy to shop for on Father’s Day.”

Shandling’s impact on television wouldn’t end on The Tonight Show. His 90’s sitcom, The Larry Sanders Show, which was set on a late night show, would go on to earn 56 Emmy nominations and inspire several comedies that came after it. Rest in peace, Garry Shandling.

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