Johnny Carson is primarily a television host, but his career spans many areas of entertainment.
He is most famous for his role as a host Tonight’s show stars Johnny Carson for three decades (1962-1992), established the standard format for late-night talk shows.
However, he is also a comedian, known for his wit and humour, and a writer, having written scripts for himself and other comedians. Additionally, he produced his own talk show and other television projects, demonstrating his abilities as a producer.
File
- Full name: John William Carson
- Stage name: Johnny Carson
- Date of birth: October 23, 1925
- Died: January 23, 2005 (79 years old)
- Birthplace: Corning, Iowa
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: American television host, comedian, writer and producer
- Height: 1.79 m
- Parents: Ruth Hook Carson and Homer Lloyd Carson
- Siblings: 2, Dick Carson and Catherine Carson
- Spouse: Alexis Maas (m. 1987–2005), Joanna Holland (m. 1972–1985), Joanne Copeland (m. 1963–1972), and Jody Wolcott (m. 1949–1963)
- Children: 3, Richard Carson, Cory Carson, and Christopher Carson
- Relationship status: Married
- Net worth: 300 million USD
Early life and education
John William Carson was born in Corning, Iowa, on October 23, 1925. He was raised in Norfolk, Nebraska, by his parents, Ruth Elizabeth (Hook) Carson (1901–1985) and Homer Lloyd “Kit” Carson ( 1899–1983), along with his two siblings, Dick Carson and Catherine Carson.
After graduating from high school in 1943, Carson joined the United States Navy during World War II. Despite his military service, he continued to perform magic tricks for his comrades, even entertaining the Secretary of the Navy at the time, James Forrestal.
After the war, Carson attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and graduated in 1949 with a major in Broadcasting and Languages and a minor in Physics. During college, he also participated in theater productions and worked for a local radio station, further honing his communication skills.
Career
John William Carson had an early start in his career, moving from radio to television in the early 1950s. He landed a writing contract for Now the bones are redthis helped establish his name in television.
Carson then went on to host various game shows and comedy shows throughout the decade, gaining more national attention. This would eventually lead to his big break when he replaced Skelton on his show, solidifying Carson as a rising star in the entertainment world.
Carson is best known as a host Tonight’s program from 1962 to 1992, taking over from Jack Paar. He is credited with defining the late-night talk show format, with its conversational style, celebrity interviews, and humorous monologues.
Carson also played a key role in launching the careers of many comedians through their appearances on his show. His popularity and success made him the undisputed king of late night television for three decades, consistently topping the ratings. He retired in 1992, leaving a lasting impact on the history of American television.
Awards and appointments
- Win:
- Emmy Awards: Six Primetime Emmy Awards
- Governor’s Award 1980
- Peabody Award: 1985 Award
- Other awards:
- Presidential Medal of Freedom 1992
- 1993 Kennedy Center Honor
- Nominations:
- Emmy Awards: Multiple nominations for Outstanding Variety, Musical or Comedy Program (series) (including 1992 win)
- Other awards:
- People’s Choice Award (multiple nominations for Favorite Talk Show Host)
- Golden Globe Award (nominated Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy)
- Photoplay Awards (multiple nominations for Favorite Variety Star)
- TCA Lifetime Achievement Award (nominated)
Social Media
- Instagram: @officialjohnnycarson
Personal life
John William Carson was married four times during his life, and each of his marriages was tumultuous. His first wife was Jody Wolcott (1949-1963), with whom he had three sons named Richard Carson, Cory Carson and Christopher Carson.
However, their marriage encountered obstacles due to infidelity on both sides. His second marriage was to Joanne Copeland (1963-1972), and it was particularly controversial, resulting in a huge settlement for Copeland.
Their relationship was also marred by deception and public scrutiny. Carson’s third wife was Joanna Holland (1972-1983), but their marriage also ended in divorce due to infidelity. His fourth and last marriage was to Alexis Maas (1987-2005), which lasted until his death in 2005.
Despite his tumultuous relationships and public scrutiny, Carson continues to be a beloved and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
Records/Movies
- Movie:
- Kiss me silly (1964) – Cameo appearance
- Hello Dolly! (1969) – Cameo appearance
- WW and Dixie Dancekings (1975) – Himself (uncredited)
- Television:
- Tonight’s program (1962–1992) – Landlord
- The Ed Sullivan Show (appears many times) – Guest
- Jack Paar Program (appears many times) – Guest
- What is my line? (appears many times) – Guest
- I love Lucy (1956) – Himself (uncredited)
Net value
Johnny Carson, the king of late night television, had an estimated net worth of $300 million at the time of his death in 2005. A long and successful career coupled with smart investments contributed to his success. his wealth.
However, lavish spending habits and multiple divorces also contributed to the decline of his fortune. Even so, Carson’s legacy as a legendary comedian and talk show host will always be remembered.
