Life is full of surprises, and David Tolley’s destiny was changed by one such unexpected event. On December 19, 1985, while attending a live taping of Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show, Tolley found himself in an unforeseen situation. Horatio Gutierrez, a classical pianist scheduled to appear on the show, was unable to perform due to a hand injury. Carson asked the audience if anyone could play the piano with some unusual rhythms.

Having studied piano as a child, Tolley stepped up. He took to the stage and performed “Memory” from the popular musical *Cats*. His performance earned him a standing ovation and instant recognition.

The day after the show, Tolley’s phone didn’t stop ringing. He received numerous offers for movie roles, jobs on cruise ships, and various other opportunities. This serendipitous encounter on a late-night talk show had irrevocably changed his life. Tolley’s unexpected success story is a reminder to always be ready to seize the opportunities and challenges that life presents.