Johnny Carson

Early Life

Johnny Carson, born John William Carson, was one of the legendary American television show hosts, famous for hosting the show “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” He was also a well-respected writer, comedian, and producer. Carson was born on October 23, 1925, in Corning, Iowa, U.S. He was the second child of Ruth Elizabeth Carson and Homer Lloyd Carson. As a young boy, Carson was interested in magic when he saw a magic kit purchased by his friend. At the age of 14, he developed his magic skills and even performed magic at local events and parties.

Education and Early Career

After completing high school, in 1943, he joined the U.S. Navy and received V-12 Navy College Training Program officer training. He served in the Navy until the end of World War II. After World War II, Carson attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he continued to perform magic. At university, he majored in journalism to become a comedy writer but switched to speech and drama later as he wanted to become a radio performer. After graduating, he was the announcer at WOW radio in Omaha, Nebraska. Later, he moved to Los Angeles and began his own television program, “Carson’s Cellar,” in 1951.

Rise to Fame

In 1954, he became the host of the game show called “Earn Your Vacation,” which aired nationally and gave him recognition as a host. Later he started his own show called “The Johnny Carson Show,” but the show was not successful and did not gain much popularity. In 1962, Carson made a significant achievement in his career by taking over “The Tonight Show” and hosting it for the next three decades until his retirement. His first guests were Groucho Marx, Joan Crawford, and Mel Brooks. Carson was famous for his comedic remarks, celebrity interviews, and the ability to engage with guests. Carson’s talent as an interviewer attracted a wide range of celebrities like politicians, authors, musicians, and comedians. Carson’s interviewing skills and comedic personality made “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” an institution in American late-night television.

Awards and Achievements

Carson received six Primetime Emmy Awards during his career as a talk show host for Outstanding Variety Series and Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program. He was also inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 1987. In 1992, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom and received a Kennedy Center Honor in 1993. Aside from his television career, he also ventured into the field of business. Carson co-founded Carson Productions, a production company responsible for producing television shows. He also authored several books like “King of the Night,” “Misery Is a Blind Date,” and “Happiness Is a Dry Martini.”

Retirement and Legacy

On May 22, 1992, Carson officially retired from hosting “The Tonight Show” at the age of 66. His retirement was an emotional farewell for Carson and his audience. After his retirement, he made post-retirement appearances on various television shows and appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman. On January 23, 2005, Johnny Carson passed away at the age of 79, due to respiratory failure arising from emphysema in Los Angeles. His death saddened his audience and other hosts who were inspired by him. He is remembered as the legendary television host and comedian who entertained his audience through his wit and hilarious remarks.