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The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

19628
Talk
Veröffentlicht
01. Okt. 1962
Land
Vereinigte Staaten
Produktionen
NBC ProductionsCarson Productions
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson ist ein Talkshow, moderiert von Johnny Carson im Rahmen der The Tonight Show-Franchise von 1962 bis 1992. Ursprünglich lief die Sendung in der späten Nacht. In den ersten zehn Jahren war Carsons Tonight Show in New York City ansässig und reiste gelegentlich nach Burbank, Kalifornien; im Mai 1972 zog die Sendung dauerhaft nach Burbank. Im Jahr 2002 belegte The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson Platz 12 auf der Liste der 50 größten TV‑Shows aller Zeiten von TV Guide.

About

Quick guide

Johnny Carson hosted this iconic late-night talk show for three decades. It set the standard for conversational interviews and entertainment.

For thirty years, Johnny Carson was the definitive voice of late-night television with The Tonight Show. From its beginnings in New York City to its permanent move to Burbank, California, Carson’s show evolved into a cultural touchstone. Each night, he welcomed a diverse range of guests, from Hollywood stars and musicians to politicians and comedians, engaging them in insightful and often humorous conversations. The program blended in-depth interviews with musical performances and comedy sketches, creating a unique nightly ritual for millions of viewers. Its influence on subsequent talk shows is immeasurable, establishing a blueprint for late-night entertainment that remains relevant today.

What to know

  • Johnny Carson hosted for 30 years, from 1962 to 1992.
  • The show originated in New York City before moving to Burbank.
  • It featured a mix of celebrity interviews, music, and comedy.
  • Carson was known for his smooth interviewing style and wit.
  • The program was a consistent ratings success.
  • It influenced the format of many subsequent talk shows.
  • Guest stars ranged from actors and musicians to authors and politicians.
  • The show was a staple of late-night television viewing.
  • It received numerous awards and accolades during its run.
  • Carson became one of the most famous personalities in American television.

Watch if

You appreciate classic television formats. You enjoy in-depth, unscripted conversations with notable figures. You're interested in the history of American broadcasting.

Skip if

You prefer contemporary television productions. You dislike interview-based programming. You are looking for high-octane action or drama.

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Carson's Reign
Johnny Carson helmed The Tonight Show for an unprecedented thirty years, becoming synonymous with late-night entertainment. His masterful interviews and effortless charm defined the genre for generations of viewers. The show's longevity and consistent quality solidified its place in television history.
The Tonight Show's Evolution
Initially broadcast from New York City, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson eventually found a permanent home in Burbank, California. This transition marked a significant chapter in the show's production and its connection with a West Coast audience, while maintaining its national appeal.
Iconic Guest Lineup
The program attracted a vast array of talent, including film stars, musicians, authors, and political figures. Carson's ability to connect with his guests created memorable moments and provided viewers with intimate glimpses into the lives of public personalities.
Format and Style
Blending insightful conversation with engaging comedy and musical interludes, the show offered a polished yet relaxed viewing experience. Carson's signature monologue and his rapport with his bandleader and announcer were integral parts of the nightly broadcast.
Cultural Significance
Ranked among the greatest television shows of all time, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson wasn't just entertainment; it was a cultural institution. It reflected and shaped societal conversations and trends throughout its remarkable three-decade run.
Legacy in Late Night
The success and innovative approach of Carson's show laid the groundwork for countless late-night programs that followed. His interviewing techniques and comedic timing set a high bar, influencing the careers of many comedians and hosts.

FAQ

40 Q&A
What happened at the end of the show?
At the end of the show, Johnny Carson would often say goodnight to his audience and the camera, sometimes with a final joke or a wave. He would then walk off stage as the credits rolled.
What did Ed McMahon do on the show?
Ed McMahon was Johnny Carson's sidekick and announcer. He introduced Johnny, read guest names, and often appeared in comedy sketches.
Where was the show filmed?
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was filmed in Burbank, California.
Did the audience clap a lot?
Yes, the audience clapped and laughed a lot during the show, especially when Johnny or his guests were funny.
Who was the announcer?
Ed McMahon was the primary announcer for the show.
What was the set like?
The set was like a cozy living room with a desk for Johnny, a couch for guests, and a bandstand. It had a warm and inviting feel.
Were there funny parts on the show?
Yes, the show was very funny! Johnny Carson was known for his great jokes, monologues, and funny characters.
What kind of guests were on the show?
Many different kinds of guests appeared, like actors, musicians, politicians, athletes, and comedians.
Who took over after Johnny Carson?
After Johnny Carson retired, Jay Leno took over as the host of The Tonight Show.
Did Johnny Carson play any characters?
Yes, Johnny Carson played many funny characters, like Carnac the Magnificent and Aunt Blabby.
What was the 'Mighty Carson Art Players'?
The 'Mighty Carson Art Players' was a comedy troupe that performed skits and characters on the show.
Did many presidents visit the show?
While presidents did not often visit the show during their time in office, many politicians and public figures appeared as guests.
How did Johnny Carson prepare for the show?
Johnny Carson worked with writers to develop his monologue jokes and skits, and he also did research on his guests.
What were some big moments on the show?
Some big moments included famous interviews, surprise guest appearances, and memorable comedy sketches.
What made Johnny Carson a good host?
He was a great listener, had a sharp wit, and could make anyone feel comfortable, making his interviews feel very natural and engaging.
What did people talk about on the show?
They talked about current events, movies, music, personal stories, and whatever was interesting in the news.
Who were some famous guests?
Many famous people visited, like Muhammad Ali, Bette Midler, Steve Martin, and Elizabeth Taylor.
Who was Johnny Carson?
Johnny Carson was the popular host of 'The Tonight Show' for many years, known for his humor and interviewing skills.
What was the best part of the show?
Many people felt the best part was Johnny's witty monologues, his interviews, and the funny comedy bits.
What kind of music was played?
There was a live band that played music, often jazz or big band tunes, during the show.
How long did the show run?
The show ran for 30 years, from 1962 to 1992.
What was the 'Carnac the Magnificent' bit?
Carnac the Magnificent was a character Johnny Carson played who would read jokes from envelopes. He would then give the punchline as the answer.
What was the show about?
The show was a late-night talk show featuring monologues, interviews with celebrity guests, and comedy sketches.
Did Johnny Carson write his own jokes?
Johnny Carson worked closely with a team of writers, but he also contributed his own ideas and often rewrote jokes to fit his style.
When did the show end?
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson ended on May 22, 1992.
What was the hardest part about making the show?
The hardest part was keeping the show fresh and exciting every night for so many years.
Who cried during the last show?
Many people cried on the last show, including Johnny Carson himself and some of his staff.
Was the show filmed live?
No, the show was taped a few hours before it aired.
What did people say about the show online?
Online comments often praised Johnny Carson's wit and his ability to make guests feel comfortable.
Did Johnny Carson ever get mad on the show?
Johnny Carson was known for his calm demeanor, and it was rare for him to show anger on air.
How many shows did Johnny Carson do?
Johnny Carson hosted over 4,000 episodes of The Tonight Show.
Were there any big mistakes on the show?
There were occasional flubs or humorous accidents, but no major widely reported mistakes.
What happened in the very last episode?
The last episode featured musical performances, tributes, and a heartfelt farewell from Johnny Carson.
What happened to the other hosts who followed?
Jay Leno and Conan O'Brien took over as hosts after Carson, each with their own style.
Did the show win any awards?
Yes, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson won multiple Emmy Awards during its run.
Why did people like the show so much?
People loved the show because of Johnny Carson's humor, his interviewing skills, and the relaxed atmosphere.
Did any other hosts try to be like Johnny?
While many hosts followed, each brought their own personality rather than directly imitating Johnny Carson.
What was the show's legacy?
The show's legacy is that it set the standard for late-night talk shows and influenced many comedians and hosts.
What did Johnny Carson say at the end?
Johnny Carson thanked his audience and crew, and expressed his appreciation for the years they had together.
What made the show unique?
Its uniqueness came from Johnny Carson's mastery of comedy, his ability to connect with guests, and its consistent quality over decades.

Schauspieler

Johnny Carson
Johnny Carson
Self - Host