Life is full of unexpected turns, and for David Tolley, one such surprise dramatically altered his path. On December 19, 1985, while in the audience of Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show, an unforeseen opportunity arose. Scheduled guest Horatio Gutierrez, a classical pianist, couldn’t perform due to a hand injury. Carson then asked if anyone in the audience could play the piano, specifically requesting someone with a knack for unique rhythms.

Tolley, who had learned piano in his youth, seized the moment. He walked onto the stage and began to play “Memory” from the musical Cats. His performance earned him a standing ovation from the audience and catapulted him to fame overnight, thanks to his impromptu showcase.

The day after his unexpected performance, David Tolley’s phone started ringing incessantly. He was inundated with offers—from roles in movies to jobs on cruise ships and various other opportunities. An accidental appearance on a late-night talk show had forever altered his life’s course. Tolley’s story of serendipitous success is a reminder to always be ready to seize the opportunities and face the challenges that life throws your way.