a. The last live guest on the Johnny Carson show was a tremendously popular entertainer, singer, and movie favorite. Who was she? b. The first live guest star on the Jay Leno Show was a popular entertainer, humorous host, and movie favorite. Who was he?

The transition from one late-night television host to another is a major cultural event, and the choice of guests for these milestone shows is highly symbolic. When Johnny Carson ended his iconic 30-year run on The Tonight Show on May 22, 1992, his final broadcast featured only two guests: Robin Williams and Bette Midler. As the last guest to be interviewed, Midler created one of television’s most memorable moments by serenading a visibly emotional Carson with "One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)," a fitting and heartfelt tribute to the departing king of late night.

Just three days later, Jay Leno began his own long tenure as the host of The Tonight Show. To help bridge the gap between the two eras, his very first guest was Billy Crystal. As a frequent and beloved visitor during Carson's years, Crystal's appearance was a nod to the show's history and a comforting presence for the audience. The choice of a universally popular comedian and movie star signaled a sense of continuity, assuring viewers that while the host was new, the spirit of entertaining conversation and humor would remain.