October 1, 1962-March 29, 1963 (NBC); 1965-1969 (Syndicated); August 18, 1969-February 11, 1972 (CBS); 1972-1986 (Syndicated).
Mort Sahl, Marsha Wallace, Ben Vereen, Kelly Monteith, and Vincent Bugliosi are the guests.
Merv chats with Mrs. Miller in the audience. He sings "What are you Doing the Rest of Your Live?"
Mort Sahl first guest discusses many topics including,
TV censorship and mentions a good example occurring on The Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder when interviewing
Beverly Harrel , a brothel owner. Merv states he likes The Tomorrow Show. Sahl talks about his admirations of Bob Hope, the best jokes come rom the people, evaluation of Washington D.C. and today's politics, why he is called a radical comedian, anecdotes about Joe Kennedy and President John F. Kennedy, busing, prayers in the schools, and minorities.
Marsha Wallace talks about her character getting married on The Bob Newhart Show...Kelly Monteith stand-up routine and small talk with Merv at the desk
Ben Vereen sings, "Try a Little Tenderness."
He reminisces about his childhood when everyone called him 'Twinkle Toes.' He remembers the teachers he had who inspired him to dance...his love of dancing wishing everyone would dance. Love of Jazz and talks about his appearing in the play "Hair."
Vincent Bugliosi author of 'Helter Skelter' and the man who prosecuted Charles Manson talks about the Manson case...the family, including "Squeaky" Fromme, the cult that existed, Manson's charisma...Bugliosi calling him a Christ figure and a genius...his 1978 parole hearing, other.
Mort Sahl joins in the conversation and makes parallels with Lee Harvey Oswald. The discussion of gun control is also discussed.
