The Tomahawk Incident: A Beacon in Ed Ames's TV Career

Ed Ames, a beloved figure in television history, achieved iconic status not just for his performances but also for an incident that somewhat unexpectedly cemented his legacy. On The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson, Ames’s demonstration of his Cherokee character Mingo’s tomahawk skills turned into a moment that would live on in the annals of television history.

Introduction of Ed Ames and His Character Mingo

Ed Ames, a multi-talented performer and member of the Ames Brothers, gained widespread recognition for his role as Mingo, a Cherokee character on the television series Daniel Boone. Mingo’s character was integral to the show, embodying the Native American culture with remarkable authentic performances.

Johnny Carson and the Discovery of the Tomahawk Skill

During a Tonight Show appearance, Ed Ames was invited to demonstrate his tomahawk skills. He proceeded to throw a tomahawk at an outline of a man drawn on a board, an act which, in the first attempt, landed precisely on the target's groin. This moment, while purely coincidental, was met with immense laughter from the audience and a bit of discomfort from Ames himself.

Carson, with his famous wit, took the moment and joked, "I didn't even know you were Jewish," adding a layer of humor to the situation. Ames, initially embarrassed, tried to remove the tomahawk, but Carson intervened, ensuring that the moment became a memorable part of Evening Television.

No Impact on Ames's Career

It is widely believed that the tomahawk incident did not have any significant impact on Ed Ames's career. Well before this moment, Ames had a well-established career in acting and music. His role as Mingo on Daniel Boone was one of many highlights in his illustrious career.

Ames's Comprehensive Acting Career

Ed Ames had already been an established actor and singer prior to the Tonight Show appearance. His performance as Mingo on the Daniel Boone series was a testament to his skills, particularly his expertise in handling a tomahawk and bullwhips. These skills were not faked; he was truly an adept tomahawk thrower.

The Significance of the Performance

The incident at the Tonight Show was an outcome of the sheer coincidence of the first throw landing on the exact spot. It was a moment of pure, unbridled amusement, with the audience and even the comedian himself enjoying the humor. However, this did not detract from the fact that Mingo and his tomahawk skills were part of a well-received series.

Conclusion

While the tomahawk incident may seem like a minor blip in Ed Ames's career, it has been a significant part of the cultural memory associated with both him and The Tonight Show. It remains a testament to the enduring spirit of entertainment in television, where even the smallest moments can leave lasting impressions.

For those interested in learning more about the Daniel Boone series and Ed Ames's career, it is recommended to watch the original episode or documentaries related to the show.