Des O'Connor Tonight

- Season 5

(1981)

Des introduces guests new to his series, including US comedian Garry Shandling and Lena Zavaroni. Completing the line up is Jim Davidson, who would become a regular when the show transferred to ITV.

Des tells the audience he's feeling extra relaxed, sharing a tale of how he pranked his first guest, US comedian Rick Podell, by disguising himself as a waiter. There's also music with Angie Gold, and chat with another O'Connor - Tom.

Des welcomes comedian George Wallace, Pam Ayres with poems including "The Ballad of Bill Spinks' Bedstead" and Roy Hudd's love of Music Hall variety.

Des hosts the UK debut of Jerry Seinfeld, joins the Nolan Sisters for some songs, and talks to Janet Brown about her world of impressions.

Des welcomes Cleo Laine to the show for the first time, and also welcomes back Jay Leno and Terry Wogan. Jay talks about married life and his adventures in Soho, while Terry chats about the letters from his listeners.

Bob Monkhouse is back on the show, but after his previous appearance he's not taking any chances, and has a padlock on his trouser zip. Also on the show is Karen Kay and the British TV debut of comedian Jimmie Walker.

Des promises a French-themed show, as he welcomes two new guests with Gallic names and backgrounds: singer Mireille Mathieu and comedienne Jeannine Burnier. Also appearing is a man who Des cites with getting him into showbiz: Max Bygraves.

Des introduces Foster Brooks, but Foster is a little worse for wear after a day's drinking. There's also a songs with Stephanie Lawrence, and Mike Yarwood explains how Prince Charles gave him the inspiration to impersonate him.