Profile of the Day: Johnny Carson

Do you remember watching The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson? Today we celebrate what would have been host Johnny Carson’s 98th birthday.

Image: Johnny Carson / State Library and Archives of Florida

John William Carson was born on October 23, 1925 in Corning, Iowa to Homer Homer Lloyd “Kit” Carson and Ruth Hook. As a child, Carson developed his entertainment skills by performing magic for his family and friends. He called himself “The Great Carsoni” and by the age of 14, began performing at county fairs and local picnics. In 1943, he joined the Naval Air Corps and served as a communications officer in charge of decoding encrypted messages.

In 1962, Carson took over as the host of The Tonight Show. Each night, he entertained audiences with his witty monologues, hilarious sketches and celebrity interviews. Dubbed the “King of Late Night,” Carson ruled the television airwaves for 30 years, winning six Emmys, a Peabody Award and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

 Explore Johnny Carson’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re related.

View Johnny Carson’s Geni Profile