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Why was Robert Klein’s first appearance on The Tonight Show in 1968 important for his career?

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Bob Hope with the USO — stand-up comedy Bob Hope with men of X Corps, Wonsan, Korea, 1950.

Robert Klein’s first appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in January 1968 was a pivotal moment for his career because it served as a crucial launchpad for his success as a stand-up comedian.1

During this appearance, Klein performed so well that he "killed," effectively launching his comedy career and leading to significant professional opportunities. Following this breakthrough, he secured roles in two films released in 1970, The Owl and the Pussycat and The Landlord, and became the host of the summer-replacement television series Comedy Tonight. This appearance marked the first of more than 100 times Klein would appear on the program, which was widely considered the most important television showcase for stand-up comedians at the time.12