The Amazing Dudley Moore Makes His First Appearance | Carson Tonight Show

I just wanted to take a few seconds to talk about Dudley. As a child of the 70’s, I was familiar, albeit vaguely with his work with Peter Cooke, however come 1979, for some reason, I remember my Dad getting rather excited about the film 10! In hindsight, that might not have been so much about Dudley as his co star. However, a couple of years later, I saw the film Arthur, falling in love with three amazing actors and a beautiful song. I’m not here to talk about that though, but to tell you about the amazing privilege I had at that time. My Grandma lived next door to Dudley’s cousin in a humble street in Harold Wood. It was I believe, her 50th birthday. At the height of his success, Dudley flew to the UK to attend her birthday in her little semi. I was lucky enough to be invited, on the condition I filmed the whole thing. I was tasked with this, as a video camera was not a common thing back then and my family had one. Truth be told, 12 year old me didn’t really believe he would actually come until that knock on the door and there was Dudley Moore standing at the threshold of a little semi in Harold Wood. I was totally star struck saying nothing, just doing my duty filming as the poor man was dragged from person to person at this party and for not one second did he stop smiling despite effectively being mauled by many a person. After about two hours, he asked me if I was interested in film making. It was the first time I’d dare say a word to him. My answer was “No, I want to be a pilot” he just replied, “great answer….do you know anywhere we can get away for a bit?” I told him my Nan lived next door and the house was empty. He said, “let’s go there then and watch what you’ve filmed.” It is still surreal to this day as a 50 year old to think we then strolled next door, he sat down in my Grandad’s chair and we sat for an hour speeding through my footage. It was so adorable that he kept saying “stop there” and having hysterics at some stupid moment of someone doing something silly. I can tell you, that laugh was genuine. What I’m trying to say with the above, is that at the absolute height of any performers career…Hollywood star, he was genuinely, the most humble caring, kind person you could ever wish to meet. With this, we returned to his cousins party and after another hour or so, he said his goodbyes, as did I and sadly for the one and only time. I was privileged to meet him in person and I take pleasure in sharing his talent and indeed this era with my son.

I remember my dad sitting in “his chair” Laughing when he watched the Johnny Carson show late at night. It was the most comforting feeling in the world. My dad fought in World War II on a destroyer, he didn’t laugh much but when he did it was wonderful. I love Johnny Carson for that.

After reading through most of the comments here, aren't we lucky to have lived through and experienced the brilliance and talents of these two gentlemen? I hear a resounding YES ! RIP Mr Carson and Mr Moore, and thank you for the memories.

Brilliant piano player, comedian and actor. Talented beyond measure.

RIP, Dudley. You were an incredible talented and gifted gentleman who is missed by many.

I had forgotten how much I loved Dudley Moore. Amazing!

How Dudley Moore goes from humor and acting intoxicated to spitting out a most beautiful piece of music that he composed is a true testament to his artistic abilities, for me still one of the funniest actors in Hollywood history, he died too young and is sorely missed by many........... RIP. Mr. Dudley.....,....... 🙏🙏🙏Arther and Arther 2 on the Rocks......👍👍

The feeling that Dudley puts into his music is overwhelming. What a genius. So sad he died so young.

I always stayed up on school nights to watch Carson's monologue. My father would watch it with me, and it was really the only time it was just the two of us. Miss you, Dad.

Such a charming naturally witty man, one of the best guest appearances ever on Carson. Dudley Moore was a rare talent and man.

Am I a weirdo for giving this Piano performance a standing ovation, 19 years AFTER Dudley Moore died??? One of the most underappreciated actors in history, Dudley Moore personified the meaning of Talent. Funny, Charismatic, and had a penchant for perfect timing. Seems like yesterday that He passed away. Rest in peace, Dear Dudley.

Johnny Carson understates Moore's pianistic skills. He was brilliant, extraordinary.

Dudley used a have a restaurant in Venice Beach in the 80's that was terrific. Sometimes he'd come in and play the piano or walk around and talk to folks. He was such a lovely and charming gentleman and since I was a decent looking "bird"in those days I was lucky enough to have drinks with him on occasion, such great fun and happy memories.

Dudley talks about jazz but his piano technique speaks of a lifetime devoted to the classical repertoire.

The definition of respect - absolute silence while Dudley played. Outstanding! Thank you for uploading this!

My husband & I had the pleasure of hearing him play a piano concert in San Diego. After the concert I told my husband, "If I die tonight, I will die a very happy woman." He was very talented.

The world was a better place when Dudley Moore was in it. Such a special talent.

I loved Dudley. He was hilarious. I wish they would bring his movies back.

Moore died on the morning of 27 March 2002 as a result of pneumonia, secondary to immobility caused by the palsy, in Plainfield, New Jersey, at the age of 66. Rena Fruchter was holding his hand when he died; she reported his final words were "I can hear the music all around me."

He was so very funny. Even his impish expressions were amusing. Just a great entertainer.