In 1983, Dick Cavett was suddenly called to be a guest host on a talk show. The venue was a small desk where Dick sat on one side and two men on the other. So for this show, the interviewees were very close and facing each other and the host.
One guest, a young handsome man, represented the American Tobacco Industry, claiming that tobacco did not cause any harm.
The other young man was there to say that smoking lead to cancer and other health problems.
Cavett let the two men debate the issue for a few minutes. But then, Dick could have no more of it and, instead of remaining the moderator, was compelled into attack mode.
“How can you sit there and say that smoking is not dangerous to your health?” Cavett said strongly.
“There is no proof to that,” the tobacco man said casually.
“What do you mean?” Cavett came back. “Everyone knows somebody who died from smoking.”
“It’s never been proven.”
“I know that I’m supposed to be the host and not have an opinion, but I just have to jump in here." Cavett was in such full force against the guest, that the other man, who was promoting the hazards of smoking, was smart enough to remain quiet.
“You know,” Cavett continued. “I want to really make you understand how I fell about this.”
“Oh, you're very clear about how you feel,” the tobacco man said, not backing down, and remaining casual.
"The most discusting ad the tobacco companies ever did," Cavett continued, "was showing a child's open drawer with a yo-yo, marbles and other child's things. Then they put the up words: Smoking. An adult decision."
The tobacco guy just shrugged his shoulders.
“Look,” Cavett said. “You're a good looking guy. Can’t you get another job beside this?”
The man half-smiled and tilted his head.
“You know, I equate you with the guards at Dachau. who said they were just doing their job.”
Finally, the time was up. I wish I could remember the conclusion, but what I do remember is word for word, as it was a memorable talk-show experience.
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