Profile of the Day: Johnny Carson

Posted October 23, 2017 by Amanda | No Comment

Johnny Carson

Heeere’s Johnny! Today we remember late-night host Johnny Carson on what would have been his 92nd birthday. Do you remember watching the “King of Late Night”?

Carson was born on October 23, 1925 in Corning, Iowa to Homer Lloyd Carson and Ruth Elizabeth Hook. He showed a talent for entertainment at a young age and performed public magic shows as “The Great Carsoni.” At the age of 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a communications officer in charge of decoding encrypted messages.

After getting his start on radio, Carson landed his iconic role as the host of The Tonight Show in 1962. His trademark jokes and easy banter with guests made his late night show one of the most popular programs on television. During its 30 year run, the show helped launch the careers of many of today’s most well-known comedians. For years, Carson was a staple on American television, and when his final episode aired in 1992, over 50 million people tuned in for the finale.

Carson died on January 23, 2005 at his home in Malibu, California. He was 79.

Explore Johnny Carson’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re related to the legendary late-night comedian.