Zippy the Chimp
I think Zippy put Johnny in a bad mood. He had already drawn blood before the show and then almost crushed Johnny's hand during the interview. It's a good think Bob Ueker came out and had a near perfect interview.
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MovieChat Forums > The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962) Discussion > Zippy the Chimp
Chimps are disturbing. I remember when I was a kid when "Mr. Jiggs" the chimp appeared at a school assembly. At least he made funny faces and did tricks, but it was still creepy to see an animal dressed up in a man's suit. That creature on the Tonight Show just emanated hostility and I think Carson sensed it. The trainer seemed uneasy about what the animal would do, so he just added to the discomfort.
Ed McMahon, who usually played with the baby bears and tiger cubs that made appearances, made himself scarce. Carson's question about how strong the animal was suggested he was fearful of this unhappy looking animal. Of course, this was years before the more recent incidents of pet chimps who maimed their owners and
innocent bystanders; Carson was right about not having the animal back ever again.
I hope chimps are not still making appearances like this.
I'm not crying, you fool, I'm laughing!
Hewwo.