Network: NBC
Episodes: 4,531 (hour)
Seasons: 30
TV show dates: October 1, 1962 – May 22, 1992
Series status: Cancelled/ended
Performers include: Johnny Carson, Ed McMahon, Doc Severinsen, Tommy Newsom, Joan Rivers, Jay Leno, Garry Shandling, Bob Newhart, Joey Bishop, John Davidson, David Brenner, McLean Stevenson, Jerry Lewis, and David Letterman.
TV show description:
Hosted by Johnny Carson, this late-night talk show follows a basic format that is almost always followed.
Ed McMahon is the announcer and Johnny’s sidekick. He begins each show by listing the night’s guests and announcing the host with a hearty, “Heeeeere’s Johnny!” Carson steps out from behind a multi-colored curtain and delivers a topical monologue of jokes to the audience. While Carson has expert comic taste, he’s also well known for delivering an occasional dud and somehow manages to make them work.
More about:
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson
