Countdown to 'Conan': Get ready for Conan O'Brien's TBS talk show debut on Nov. 8

Andy Richter never meant to become a sidekick.

When Conan O'Brien took over 'Late Night,' head writer Robert Smigel hired Richter to be a writer. But in the weeks leading up to the new show's premiere, it became obvious O'Brien was nervous on camera (it was actually obvious the first few seasons), so Smigel told Richter to go on stage during a practice run-through, just to calm the host down. Their rapport was so strong Richter became the permanent sidekick.

Seven years later, Richter left 'Late Night With Conan O'Brien' on good terms to pursue acting. His exit gave us the cult favorites 'Andy Richter Controls The Universe' and 'Andy Barker, P.I.', but we missed his quick, deadpan one-liners and ability to play O'Brien's folly. He balanced O'Brien's hyper personae as the host tried to find the show's voice.

Last year, Richter rejoined O'Brien on 'The Tonight Show' as the announcer. The two fell right back into their comedic partnership. Now on the new 'Conan,' Richter will retake his rightful place at O'Brien's right hand and be the sidekick once again.

To prepare for his return, we found some of Richter's best moments on 'Late Night.' We hope the TBS show can re-imagine some of these recurring sketches and moments.


Ed McMahon Heckles Andy
'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' decided to tape for a week in Los Angeles back in 1999. During their first show in the new city, Johnny Carson sidekick Ed McMahon appears in the crowd to heckle Andy. It's obviously a joke, but Richter does a great job of playing it off and looking hurt.



Andy's Little Sister
Before her break on 'Saturday Night Live,' Amy Poehler played the recurring character of Andy's kid sister. The two did a hilarious job selling their funny sibling rivalry. It would be great if Poehler could drop by the new show and do it again. In this clip, you'll also notice actor Andy Daly from 'Eastbound and Down.'



Conan and Andy Desk Drive
In this hilarious recurring sketch, O'Brien pretends to drive Richter around New York City with his desk. While it's mostly just cheesy fun, the sidekick is note-perfect playing scared and cracking subtle jokes.



Jarod Miller And His Crazy Animals
Jarod Miller, perhaps the most unprofessional animal handler ever, allows his animals to run rampant around the studio. In typical form, O'Brien reacts quickly in an over-the-top manner. Richter is just as fast with the wit, but stays calm to balance the crazy.



Andy Goes Hootchie
For this old segment on daytime talk shows, Richter strays from his usual demeanor and proves he has some acting chops. He starts wearing short shorts and crop tops to work to show off his body. His sassy demeanor on the talk show will have you howling.



Naked on 'Today'
Most likely his best moment during his entire run of the series. Just watch and see.