1. Friendship: Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin were close friends and members of the renowned "Rat Pack," which included Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. Their friendship and camaraderie made Davis Jr. a natural guest on Martin's show.
2. Versatility: Sammy Davis Jr. was a talented entertainer who could sing, dance, act, and play musical instruments. His versatility made him a valuable asset to the variety show format, as he could contribute to various segments and performances.
3. Appeal: Sammy Davis Jr. had a broad fan base and was popular with both audiences and fellow entertainers. His appearances on The Dean Martin Variety Show helped draw viewers and increased the show's overall appeal.
4. Collaboration: Davis Jr. and Martin frequently performed together, both on and off the show. They had successful collaborations, such as the comedy-musical film Ocean's Eleven (1960) and the holiday television special "A Toast to Dean" (1970). Their chemistry and comedic timing were well-received by audiences.
5. Entertainment Value: Sammy Davis Jr. brought energy, charisma, and entertainment value to The Dean Martin Variety Show. His presence added a dynamic element to the show and made him a memorable and beloved guest.