A CLASSIC 1972 TELEVISION MOMENT
Some talk-show appearances feel like interviews.
Others feel more like two comedians sitting down and seeing where the conversation goes.
Don Rickles’ 1972 appearance on The Dick Cavett Show belongs firmly in the second category.
Rickles appeared on the program on April 13, 1972, alongside other guests including Beverly Sills, Phyllis Kirk, and Earl Wilson.
But once Rickles gets the opportunity to speak, the conversation quickly becomes a showcase for his unmistakable comedy style.
THE KING OF QUICK COMEBACKS
Don Rickles built his reputation around fast insults, sharp observations, and an ability to turn almost any person or situation into material.
That style made him especially entertaining on talk shows.
He did not need a carefully prepared stage setup.
He simply needed another person sitting across from him.
That person happened to be Dick Cavett.
Cavett was an experienced interviewer who knew how to keep a conversation moving without constantly interrupting the guest.
That gave Rickles plenty of room to do what he did best.
He could listen.
He could pause.
He could study the situation.
Then suddenly deliver another line.
RICKLES AND CAVETT...
