Extraterrestial Alf hosting trial-run talk show

Ed McMahon has found the unlikeliest of talk-show hosts to replace Johnny Carson: Alf, the alien from the planet Melmac.

McMahon will be announcing “Heeeere’s Alf!” on a half-hour special airing tonight on TV Land (7 p.m. on Comcast cable channel 163 in Spokane, 10 p.m. on Adelphia cable channel 23 in Coeur d’Alene).

“Alf’s Hit Talk Show” will rely on the tried-and-true format of a late-night talk show with monologue, banter and guests, with one significant alteration: an alien from a popular ‘80s TV sitcom as host.

Alf will be joined by Dennis Franz of “NYPD Blue” and comedian Drew Carey, with special appearances by Joan Rivers and Henry Winkler.

Following “Alf’s Hit Talk Show,” TV Land will run a four-episode marathon of classic “Alf” episodes. The comedy about a furry alien wiseguy who lives with an Earth family after crashing into their garage ran from 1986-90.

As for TV Land’s faith in him to join the ranks of David Letterman, Jay Leno and Conan O’Brien, Alf said in a recent statement: “They have demonstrated superb taste by giving me my own show, and it’s humbling that they recognize my unequaled genius.”

Depending on the reception of the half-hour special, the idea could be developed into a series, TV Land said.