On October 23, 2025, Johnny Carson would have turned 100 years old. The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was more than a late-night talk show—it was America’s bedtime ritual. For three decades, from 1962 to 1992, Carson guided the nation through triumph and tragedy—calming and comforting us with laughter, wit, and wonder. He didn’t just host television’s most enduring franchise; he defined what late night would be for generations.
Carson’s genius was in his range. He could perform a sketch as the Great Carnac, banter with a precocious kid or a flustered zoo guest, and then turn on a dime to reveal a quiet, human warmth that disarmed everyone—celebrities and civilians alike. The chemistry with his audience was pure magic: they trusted him to be sharp, but never mean; silly, but always in control. Urbane and sophisticated but somehow also folksy. For millions, that mix made him not just the King of Late Night, but television’s moral center.
To celebrate Carson’s centennial, we’ve gathered 100 moments from his legendary run on The Tonight Show. Presented in chronological order, these highlights trace the evolution of both a performer and an era, from the live-wire energy of his youth in the 1960s to the sleek confidence of his later years as a beloved elder statesman.
Some of these moments are iconic—others delightfully obscure—but each captures a piece of Carson’s unmatched alchemy: timing, curiosity, generosity, and joy. Whether it’s a young comedian’s first big break, a guest’s unforgettable faux pas, or Johnny himself masterfully addressing a joke gone wrong, these are the moments that built the legend and kept America tuned in, night after night.
Johnny’s First Night
October 1, 1962
After Jack Paar’s departure from The Tonight Show in March 1962, NBC turned to a young Midwesterner named Johnny Carson. His appointment sparked enormous anticipation—only heightened by a six-month wait while he finished his Who Do You Trust? contract at ABC. Though no video of Carson’s debut is known to still exist, surviving audio and stills capture the spark and ease that would define his legendary reign over late night.
The First of Many Guest Hosts
January 14, 1963
Guest hosts would become a defining feature of Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show reign, giving stars—and, most famously, emerging comics—their first test drive in the big chair. Carson’s first fill-in did go on to host his own prime time network show, but today he’s better remembered for his line of breakfast sausages: country singer and TV personality Jimmy Dean.
Westward Ho!
May 13–24, 1963
Carson was still finding his footing in late night when he first brought The Tonight Show to Los Angeles. For nine nights, Johnny’s guest list was packed with major Hollywood names rarely seen on the New York set, and the larger Burbank audience brought a new, electric energy to the show. The LA trips became increasingly frequent over the next nine years, until Carson and his crew ultimately moved west for good.
Enter the Magnificent One
May 18, 1964
A year and a half into his Tonight Show run, Johnny Carson introduced what would become his most iconic recurring character: Carnac the Magnificent. Draped in a turban and cape, Carson played the all-knowing mystic who could divine answers before hearing the questions, which had been “hermetically sealed” and “kept in a mayonnaise jar on Funk and Wagnalls’ porch.” The bit—equal parts wordplay, timing, and showmanship—became a Tonight Show staple, spawning decades of quotable punchlines and a format that perfectly showcased Carson’s gift for controlled silliness.
Johnny the Showman
September 21, 1964
In contrast to Jack Paar’s polished, conversational style, Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show crackled with variety. Especially in its early years, the show often felt like a party—and Johnny always seemed to be having the most fun. A natural entertainer, he more than held his own alongside powerhouse guests like Pearl Bailey as in this loose, joyful duet of “Our Love Is Here to Stay.”
The First Standup Invited to the Couch
November 19, 1964
When comedian Pete Barbutti made his Tonight Show debut, his routine was so sharp that Johnny Carson broke precedent—leaving his desk to bring him to the couch. The “couch invitation” became a rare, coveted badge of honor for stand-ups, an acknowledgement that a comic had truly impressed Johnny.
Sammy Davis Jr. Makes Late-Night History
November 23, 1964
Though Carson is often remembered as an apolitical host, he championed one of the era’s most divisive issues: civil rights. In 1964, he invited a frequent and favorite guest, Sammy Davis Jr., to guest-host The Tonight Show, making Davis the first Black person to host a network late-night program. Davis’ lead guest that night was another civil rights crusader—newly-elected Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
Ricky Carson Sings on The Tonight Show
April 16, 1965
Though Johnny Carson was famously guarded about his personal life, he made a rare exception at his son’s request, inviting twelve-year-old Ricky Carson to sing “Till There Was You” on The Tonight Show. The performance moved Johnny to near tears. A year later, Ricky returned with his brother Cory and a friend, prompting Johnny to quip, “There’s nothing like nepotism.”
The 15-Minute Standoff
February 19, 1965
Ever the shrewd negotiator, Johnny Carson learned early how to wield his influence. In The Tonight Show’s early years, the program ran a full 105 minutes, beginning at 11:15 p.m. By 1965, most NBC affiliates were preempting the show’s first 15 minutes to run expanded 30 minute local newscasts. After NBC ignored his initial appeals, Carson took a stand—refusing to appear until 11:30. “I came down with a fifteen-minute virus,” he quipped on the air. NBC threatened breach of contract, but Carson held firm—and the network relented.
Joan Rivers’ First Shot
February 17, 1965
No comedian ever had their fortunes shaped by Carson more than Joan Rivers. But it may surprise some to learn that Rivers never performed stand up on the show. Introduced as a writer, Rivers joined Carson on the couch, where her sharp wit and fearless improvisation—honed at Second City and in New York’s coffeehouses—immediately dazzled. Carson was so taken that he boldly declared, “You’re going to be a star.” He then made sure she was.
Ed Ames Tomahawk Throw
April 27, 1965
One of the show’s most infamous early clips came when actor Ed Ames, then starring in Daniel Boone, demonstrated tomahawk throwing. His aim landed the weapon squarely in the cowboy target’s groin, prompting an explosion of laughter. Carson held Ames back from retrieving it, stretching out the laugh until delivering his perfectly timed punchline: “I didn’t even know you were Jewish!” (Fun fact: Ames WAS Jewish!)
Carson Performs “Here’s That Rainy Day”
February 2, 1967
Though he made his bones in comedy, Carson was also a talented musician. After taking guitar lessons and working with a vocal coach, he fulfilled a quiet dream—performing his favorite song, “Here’s That Rainy Day,” on The Tonight Show. Singing softly and simply, just voice and guitar, Carson delivered a tender, hesitant rendition that revealed a rare note of vulnerability behind the desk.
A Hometown Honor Humbles Carson
February 14, 1967
By 1967, Johnny Carson was a bona fide late-night star. Still, the small-town boy from Norfolk, Nebraska, seemed genuinely moved when his home state’s governor appeared on The Tonight Show to announce that April 1 would be “Johnny Carson Day” in Nebraska. Six weeks later, Carson returned home for the first time in years to accept the honor.
Johnny Quits
April 4, 1967
In another standoff with NBC, Carson walked off The Tonight Show, claiming the network had violated his contract by airing reruns during an actors’ strike. In truth, he wanted more pay, vacation time, and creative control—all of which he secured before returning two weeks later. Jimmy Dean filled in during his absence, while NBC signed Bob Newhart as a possible replacement if Johnny didn’t come back.
A Record for the Ages
June 5, 1967
Not even five years into his run, Johnny Carson became the longest-tenured Tonight Show host, surpassing Steve Allen (2 years, 3 months, 30 days) and Jack Paar (4 years, 8 months, 2 days). Carson would go on to host the show for nearly three decades—29 years, 7 months, and 21 days—and remains the show’s longest-serving host to this day.
Doc’s First Night as Bandleader
October 9, 1967
Trumpeter Doc Severinsen was Carson’s third Tonight Show bandleader, but his sparkling chemistry with Johnny—and his flair for flamboyant suits—ensured he’d be the last. A virtuoso with a showman’s streak, Severinsen quickly became a defining presence, punctuating Carson’s punchlines with perfect timing and a blast of brass.
Richard Nixon’s TV Makeover
November 22, 1967
At the height of speculation about another presidential run, Richard Nixon went on The Tonight Show hoping to appear more relaxed and likable. Trading jokes with Carson, Nixon pulled it off. His improved on-screen image, aided by Carson’s own makeup artist, whom Nixon later borrowed for his televised speeches helped soften his public persona just months before he announced his 1968 campaign.
Johnny Carson Questions Jim Garrison
January 31, 1968
Carson devoted more than half an episode of The Tonight Show to a tense, extended interview with New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison about his JFK assassination conspiracy claims. Pressing Garrison with calm but pointed skepticism, Carson set aside comedy for hard questions—a rare glimpse of the thoughtful, unflappable host behind the humor.
Harry Belafonte Sits In
February 5-9, 1968
Amid protests over civil rights and the Vietnam War, Johnny Carson handed The Tonight Show to Harry Belafonte for a full week—a groundbreaking gesture in a divided America. Belafonte filled his guest list with artists and activists including Martin Luther King Jr., Robert F. Kennedy, and Lena Horne, blending politics, art, and humanity. Fifty years later, the week was revisited in the acclaimed documentary The Sit-In: Harry Belafonte Hosts The Tonight Show.
Don Rickles and the Japanese Bath
February 16, 1968
Few guests turned The Tonight Show into an event like Don Rickles. During a week of California shows, Johnny donned a speedo to demonstrate the art of Japanese massage. Then Rickles crashed the scene. What followed was pure late-night chaos and comic perfection, capped by the pleasure of watching Carson get the last laugh on Rickles.
Johnny and Jack Webb’s “Clapper Caper”
February 20, 1968
One of the joys of Carson’s Tonight Show was seeing celebrities in a different light. In an era when public images were carefully managed, stars trusted Johnny. So when Dragnet creator and star Jack Webb agreed to satirize his show’s signature staccato style, the supremely silly result was comedy gold—a pitch-perfect parody that showed even Hollywood’s straightest man could take a joke.
Brando Brings the Fight for Racial Justice to Tonight
April 19, 1968
Marlon Brando’s 1968 Tonight Show appearance began lightly but quickly turned serious as he spoke about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination and his commitment to civil rights. Brando announced he was donating ten percent of his income to King’s foundation and urged others to join him. Carson responded on air, pulling out his own check and declaring, “It’s time to stand up and be counted.”
A Tribute to Robert F. Kennedy
June 7, 1968
The Tonight Show was preempted for two nights after Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination. When Carson returned, he broke format to honor his friend and neighbor—no audience, no monologue, no desk. Instead, he guided a quiet, heartfelt conversation with Alan King, Orson Bean, Jimmy Breslin, and Sander Vanocur about Kennedy’s life and legacy, creating one of the most poignant broadcasts in Tonight Show history.
Judy Garland’s Final Tonight Show Appearance
December 17, 1968
Judy Garland’s second appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson would tragically be her last. Though visibly nervous and frail, her singing voice was still rich with emotion. During her second song—a wistful Christmas tune performed from her seat beside the desk—Carson looked genuinely moved. Garland died the following year. She was just 47.
The Golden Age of Drop-Ins
February 21, 1969
Unannounced surprise guests were to be expected during Carson’s frequent sojourns to Los Angeles when the show was still based in New York. Guests interacted freely, cigarettes and cocktails in hand—it was a looser, rowdier time. One night, after Bob Hope and Dean Martin stopped by, wreaking havoc on George Gobel’s planned guest shot, Gobel landed the killer line: “Did you ever get the feeling that the world was a tuxedo and you were a pair of brown shoes?”
Rodney Wins Over Johnny
April 14, 1969
Rodney Dangerfield nearly torpedoed his shot at The Tonight Show by sending Johnny Carson a letter accusing one of the show’s writers of stealing his material. But fences were mended, and when Dangerfield finally took the stage, he crushed—winning over both Carson and the audience. He soon became a regular guest and one of Johnny’s favorite comedians.
Johnny Puts His Foot In His Mouth Introducing Rose Marie
August 14, 1969
While introducing actress Rose Marie during a star-studded Los Angeles broadcast, Johnny remarked that she’d “been in show business longer than anyone here.” True—but not exactly tactful. The moment sent the studio into hysterics, as Carson tried and failed to recover. Ed McMahon, Debbie Reynolds, John Byner, George “Goober” Lindsey, and Dick Van Dyke Show creator Carl Reiner all gleefully piled on, turning the gaffe into classic Tonight Show chaos.
Jay Silverheels Reimagines Tonto
September 9, 1969
In what would become one of The Tonight Show’s most famous sketches, Johnny Carson reimagined the Lone Ranger’s faithful sidekick applying for a job in the real world. With Jay Silverheels reprising his role as Tonto, the bit cleverly poked fun at the character’s outdated servility—turning a childhood TV icon into an unforgettable piece of late-night comedy.
Tiny Tim Marries Miss Vicki
December 17, 1969
Nearly 45 million viewers tuned in to watch the eccentric ukulele player exchange vows and serenade his bride with “The Wedding Song for Miss Vicki” on The Tonight Show. Sincere, surreal, and decades ahead of reality TV, the broadcast turned Carson’s stage into America’s most unlikely wedding chapel.
Johnny Mints a Bestseller
January 27, 1970
At the height of the sexual revolution, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid to Ask) sparked national conversation—but it was Johnny Carson who made its author, Dr. David Reuben, a household name. Reuben appeared on The Tonight Show three times in 1970 alone, each time sending ratings—and book sales—soaring. The result: a 55-week run on The New York Times bestseller list.
Carson Under Guard
1970
When you’re TV’s biggest star, death threats come with the territory. After one credible threat, thirty New York police officers filled the studio while Carson went on with the show as usual. The heavy police presence cast a strange quiet over his monologue, leading Carson to quip to his would-be assassin, “You might as well do it now. I’m dying anyway.” The crew burst into laughter—but viewers at home never knew why.
Johnny Welcomes America’s Heroes
June 3, 1970
When the Apollo 13 crew walked onto The Tonight Show stage, the audience erupted. Just weeks after their near-fatal mission, Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert brought humor and humility to Carson’s couch. With warmth and curiosity, Carson turned their visit into a national moment of gratitude and quiet awe for three men who’d stared down disaster.
Shaken, Not Stirred
February 9, 1971
One of Carson’s best remembered one-liners came after a 6.6 magnitude earthquake rattled Los Angeles and The Tonight Show happened to be in town doing a week of shows. Opening his monologue, he said, “Before we start, I’d like to announce that the God Is Dead Rally scheduled for tonight has been canceled.” Carson later credited writer Pat McCormick for the classic joke.
Liz Torres Makes History
July 15, 1971
Puerto Rican American comedian Liz Torres made Tonight Show history as the first female stand-up ever invited to join Johnny Carson on the couch. Her act—a flamboyant opera singer trying to sing Janis Joplin—brought the audience to its feet. After she exited the stage, Carson ran after her, saying, “You got to come back out.” He led her to the panel himself, marking a breakthrough moment for women in comedy.
The Tonight Show Moves to Los Angeles
May 1, 1972
It’s not hyperbolic to say that when Carson moved The Tonight Show from 30 Rock in New York to NBC Burbank, the comedy business moved with it. Comics whose home clubs had been the original Improv and Catch a Rising Star were now moving across the country to work at the newly opened Comedy Store in Hollywood just to be closer to the show.
The Uri Geller Incident
August 1, 1973
In what may be the most excruciating 28 minutes in late-night history, self-proclaimed psychic Uri Geller failed to perform a single feat during his appearance on The Tonight Show. Unbeknownst to him, Johnny Carson—contemptuous of anyone claiming supernatural powers—had ensured Geller couldn’t tamper with the props beforehand, guaranteeing he’d succeed on psychic ability alone—or not at all.
When the Dog Wouldn’t, Johnny Did
September 13, 1973
A live Alpo dog food commercial went hilariously off-script when Ed McMahon’s canine co-star refused to eat. After the dog wandered off, Carson crawled into the shot on all fours, pretending to devour the food himself. McMahon played along, petting his “dog” and getting a lick in return. What began as a 30-second ad became a 90-second comedy classic—and led to a sales spike for Alpo.
Freddie Prinze’s Debut
December 5, 1973
At just nineteen, Freddie Prinze made one of the most storied debuts in Tonight Show history. His routine about growing up “Hunga-rican” (half Hungarian, half Puerto Rican) had Johnny, the audience, and guest Sammy Davis Jr. in stitches—Davis even rushed over to embrace him on air. Overnight, Prinze became a star, soon headlining Chico and the Man. Tragically, he died by suicide only three years later, at twenty-two.
Carson’s Monologue Streaker
March 28, 1974
In the height of the 1970s streaking craze, the infamous pants-dropping enfant terrible of the Tonight Show writing staff Pat McCormick was not going to miss his opportunity to get in on the action. The phenomenon reached its peak days later, when a streaker ran across the stage at the Academy Awards during David Niven’s presentation.
Joan Embery’s Cheetahs Are Not Fans of Johnny
September 13, 1974
The old showbiz axiom warns, “Never work with children or animals.” Carson did both—frequently and fabulously. Like his idol Jack Benny, Johnny was a master reactor, letting every unpredictable moment inspire a classic reaction. Over the years, the San Diego Zoo’s Joan Embery was a guest many times, bringing all sorts of creatures, from the cute and cuddly to the fierce and ferocious.
Dom DeLuise’s Egg Trick Goes Sideways
September 26, 1974
Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show thrived on unpredictable, anything-can-happen energy—and the combination of raw eggs and the manic energy of Dom DeLuise was a perfect recipe for a comic set piece that could go deliciously off the rails. What began as a simple “egg trick” soon devolved into one of the show’s messiest, and most memorable moments.
The Joke That Sparked a Panic
December 19, 1974
In the anxious days of the 1970s energy crisis, a congressman warned of a potential toilet paper shortage. When Johnny Carson repeated the story on air—omitting the word “potential”—viewers panicked, clearing store shelves nationwide. Carson later apologized, saying, “I don’t want to be remembered as the man who created a false toilet paper scare.”
Johnny Eulogizes Jack Benny
December 31, 1974
When Jack Benny—Johnny Carson’s hero and mentor—died, Carson was devastated. On his first show after the funeral, he skipped the monologue and offered a heartfelt tribute, calling Benny “the kindest, most gentle man I have ever met.” He said he’d learned everything from Benny—his timing, humility, and grace. Carson is said to have wept privately for hours after saying goodbye.
Johnny Chats with Baby New Year
January 1, 1975
At 6’7”, Tonight Show writer Pat McCormick was a towering comic presence—both literally and creatively. His on-camera appearances always cracked Johnny up, none more so than when he lumbered out in nothing but a diaper as “Baby New Year.” The surreal image alone was enough to send Carson into fits of laughter as he happily played the straight man to McCormick’s absurdity.
Reagan Previews His Presidential Platform
January 3, 1975
Former California governor Ronald Reagan sat down with Johnny Carson for a Tonight Show interview that doubled as a political test run. He spoke against high taxes and government overreach, previewing themes that would define his politics—and the future of American conservatism. Months later, Reagan challenged Gerald Ford for the Republican nomination, losing narrowly, but the same message would carry him to the White House five years later.
Peppard vs. Williams: The Tonight Show Brawl
May 2, 1975
Johnny Carson rarely lost control, but in one 1975 episode, actor George Peppard arrived tipsy and began heckling fellow guest Paul Williams, prompting a sharp and hilarious on-air feud that spiraled into mayhem. The clash escalated on air until Carson walked off, leaving Richard Harris to seize the desk. The result: one of the wildest, most talked-about nights in Tonight Show history.
Barbra Streisand Bows Out, Carson Steps In
July 9, 1975
Carson had no sacred cows. When Barbra Streisand canceled a planned Tonight Show appearance on short notice, he dutifully told his audience the night before, noting she’d given no reason. But he got the last laugh the next evening—introducing “Barbra” to the crowd, only for impersonator Madlyn Rhue to appear, start singing “People,” and be cut off mid-song as Carson quipped the show was overbooked.
Shelley Winters vs. Oliver Reed
July 26, 1975
Shelley Winters and Oliver Reed clashed almost immediately during their Tonight Show appearance—talking over each other until tempers flared. After leaving the set, Winters saw Reed on a backstage monitor dismissing women’s liberation. Grabbing a mug of whiskey, she stormed back onstage and poured it over his head as the audience roared. Carson, ever unflappable, suggested to Reed, “Just lick it off.” The press ran with the story for weeks.
Johnny Confronts Rickles on the Set of CPO Sharkey
December 14, 1976
On an occasion when Bob Newhart filled in as host for Johnny, Don Rickles broke Carson’s wooden cigarette box during an animated bit of repartee. The next night, Johnny returned to discover the damage—and decided to pay a visit to Rickles, who happened to be shooting his sitcom CPO Sharkey just across the hall from Carson’s studio. Cameras followed Carson as he confronted a sheepish, tongue-tied Rickles in one of Tonight’s most replayed moments.
Peter Finch’s Final Interview
January 13, 1977
The acclaimed actor behind Network’s “I’m as mad as hell” outburst appeared on The Tonight Show at the peak of his fame—charming Johnny and celebrating his newfound success. Less than 24 hours later, Peter Finch died suddenly of a heart attack. A visibly shaken Carson paid tribute to the actor the night after Finch’s appearance, extending his condolences. Two months later, Finch made history as the first actor to win a posthumous Oscar.
Andy Kaufman Impersonates Elvis Presley
March 3, 1977
Well before the character was adapted to become the lovable Latka on the hit sitcom Taxi, the innovative comedian Andy Kaufman made this memorable appearance on The Tonight Show where he performed the transformation from his “Foreign Man” into his stunning Elvis Presley impersonation.
Ed’s Liquid Lunch
April 8, 1977
When Ed McMahon returned to work after a celebratory lunch, Johnny Carson quickly sensed his sidekick was a little too cheerful. His suspicions were confirmed on air in one of the show’s most legendary moments of spontaneity, when a charmingly tipsy McMahon interrupted Carson mid-introduction of frequent guest Joan Embery.
Mister Rogers’ Final Show
May 12, 1978
By the late ’70s, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was a popular and prime target for parody—and Johnny Carson delivered one of the best. His characterization of Fred Rogers was pretty dead on, except that his trademark earnestness was juxtaposed against Carson’s darker takes on where babies come from and an array of more adult topics.
Buddy Rich and Ed Shaughnessy Drum Off
August 11, 1978
Studio audiences for The Tonight Show knew what TV viewers often didn’t—the NBC Orchestra was one of the finest big bands in jazz. A drummer himself, Carson took special pride in showcasing their talent. In this electrifying moment, jazz legend Buddy Rich squared off with the show’s own Ed Shaughnessy, trading thunderous solos in a dazzling display.
David Letterman’s First Appearance
November 24, 1978
Listen closely during any comedian’s performance on The Tonight Show and you will often hear Johnny’s laugh. That was especially true for David Letterman’s inaugural appearance. Carson took to his fellow Midwesterner immediately and granted him the coveted wave over to sit down after his set. Only two months later, Dave was guest hosting the show.
Johnny and Sally Field’s Shaving-Cream Showdown
February 20, 1979
Sally Field’s first Tonight Show visit began sweetly but ended in glorious chaos. Then dating Burt Reynolds, she teased Johnny with a dab of shaving cream, declaring, “There’s nothing you can do—I’m short and cute!” Carson proved otherwise, launching a full-on counterattack that left both covered in foam and the audience in stitches.
Kermit Guest Hosts
April 2, 1979
By 1979, viewers were used to seeing people guest host for Carson—but not puppets. Enter Kermit the Frog, cracking jokes and interviewing Vincent Price and Bernadette Peters like a late-night pro. Producer Peter Lassally’s idea met NBC resistance, but with Jim Henson at the controls, the episode became an instant classic. Carson watched from home and called Henson the next day to congratulate him.
Chevy Chase vs. Gallagher
May 9, 1979
While Carson rarely relished in personality clashes on his couch, sometimes they occurred. And considering the reputations of peak-era Chevy Chase and sledge-hammer wielding prop comic Gallagher, it was pretty much inevitable. But Johnny was canny enough to just sit back and let the audience enjoy the fireworks.
Dolly’s Musical Thank You
September 19, 1979
Few guests clicked with Johnny Carson quite like Dolly Parton, who credited him with helping her cross over to mainstream stardom. On one memorable visit, she even wrote and performed a playful song in his honor—an affectionate thank you that showcased their warmth, humor, and undeniable chemistry on the Tonight Show couch.
Johnny & Doc Talk Thanksgiving Plans
November 21, 1979
What began as friendly banter about holiday plans between Johnny and his bandleader (filling in for Ed that night) spiraled into jokes about failed marriages and stuffing recipes, leaving both men in tears of laughter. Their effortless chemistry—and genuine affection—made this Thanksgiving exchange an instant classic.
Richard Pryor’s Emotional Return
September 5, 1980
When Richard Pryor returned to The Tonight Show after setting himself on fire, Johnny Carson greeted him with a long embrace, affectionately referring to him as “Richie.” Pryor, still sharp and funny, drew a huge laugh by feigning agony at Johnny’s gentle touch. What followed was one of the most candid and heartfelt conversations in the show’s history—a rare glimpse of the deep friendship between the legends.
Johnny vs. the Enquirer
March 17, 1981
Johnny Carson was no stranger to tabloid headlines, but when the National Enquirer claimed his marriage to Joanna Carson was in trouble, he did something he almost never did—he fought back on air. “I want to go on record right here,” he angrily told his audience, calling the Enquirer “liars” and daring them to sue him for slander. “You know where I am, gentlemen.” The Carsons divorced two years later.
Jimmy Stewart Moves Carson to Tears
July 28, 1981
At 73 and retired from acting, legendary American actor Jimmy Stewart visited The Tonight Show and brought along a poem he’d written for his late dog, Beau. What began as a simple reading became one of the show’s most heartfelt moments, leaving Johnny Carson—and much of America—in tears.
Sis Boom Bah
August 5, 1981
Johnny Carson once called the “Sis Boom Bah” gag the second-best moment of his Tonight Show career (Ed Ames’ Tomahawk Toss came in first). During a Carnac the Magnificent sketch, the punchline—“Describe the sound made when a sheep explodes”—sent the audience into a sustained 53-second laugh break, creating one of the most joyful and spontaneous moments in late-night history.
Burt Reynolds, This Is Your Life
February 11, 1982
At the height of his box-office fame, Burt Reynolds found himself on the receiving end of some good-natured kidding from Johnny Carson. To celebrate his birthday, Reynolds was surprised with a roast-style spoof of the classic Ralph Edwards tribute series This Is Your Life—complete with a cameo from his frequent partner in mischief, Dom DeLuise.
Owning Up, On Air
March 2, 1982
When you’re as famous as Johnny Carson, your worst moments get as much attention as your best. After his arrest for driving under the influence in Beverly Hills, Carson addressed it head-on on The Tonight Show. Escorted onstage by a mock police officer, he joked he’d been “doing research for my new special, Johnny Goes Home to the Slammer,” then grew serious: “I regret the incident—and you’ll never see me do that again.”
Johnny Is Ronald Reagan in Classic “Who’s On First” Spoof
May 7, 1982
Arguably the most famous comedy routine of all time, Abbott and Costello’s “Who’s on First?” is brilliantly reimagined here, with Carson as then–President Ronald Reagan in the slow-to-catch-on Lou Costello role.
The Cartier of Caca
May 7, 1982
Not all of Carson’s guests were celebrities—at least not before sitting on his couch. When The Tonight Show welcomed Frank Hill, the self-proclaimed “Manure Man of South Carolina,” he handed Carson a necklace made from quail droppings encased in plastic. “You’re the Cartier of caca, aren’t you?” Carson quipped. The appearance earned Hill a small role in Burt Reynolds’ Stroker Ace.
Steven Wright’s First Shot
August 6, 1982
Few comedians have a Cinderella story like Steven Wright’s. A local Boston comic performing at a Chinese restaurant called the Ding Ho, Wright caught the eye of Tonight Show producer Peter Lassally, who happened to be in town visiting colleges with his son. Impressed by Wright’s deadpan, surreal style, Lassally invited him to make his national TV debut with Johnny Carson—and a star was born.
Albert Brooks’ Home Impressions Kit
February 24, 1983
Albert Brooks earned a reputation as a “comedian’s comedian” early on, when his childhood best friend Rob Reiner’s father, Carl Reiner, told Johnny Carson on the air that the teenager was the funniest person he knew. Carson later welcomed Brooks as a frequent guest, but none of his appearances captured his absurd genius better than this mock sales pitch for a “Home Impressions Kit,” teaching ordinary people to mimic celebrities using various foods.
Albert Brooks and His Electronic Friend “Buddy”
May 17, 1983
Just months later, Brooks returned to deliver another Tonight Show classic. Though not his first routine to lampoon the art of ventriloquism, this bit—featuring a crudely anthropomorphized Speak & Spell—became one of his most celebrated. Using the toy’s stilted, alphabet-only replies as a comic foil, Brooks turned low-tech absurdity into high-concept brilliance, cementing his reputation as one of the most inventive minds ever to work Carson’s stage.
The Malibu Restaurant Sketch
September 7, 1983
When it came to sketch comedy, Johnny Carson loved going big—and getting wet. In one of The Tonight Show’s most ambitious (and amphibious) productions, Carson and guest star Betty White performed an extended restaurant sketch set in the surf off Malibu, waves crashing around their table.
Chasing Freddy
May 3, 1984
Often the funniest part of Johnny Carson’s monologues came when a joke bombed—no one recovered better from a flop. But on this night, he did something rare. After a punchline landed with a thud, Carson spotted executive producer Fred DeCordova walking off the set—and promptly left the spotlight to chase him down.
Carson in the Key of Nelson
June 21, 1984
In a fan-favorite sketch, Carson donned braids and a bandana to impersonate Willie Nelson for a duet of “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before” with the real Julio Iglesias. Playing it straight, he sang so convincingly that when Nelson later appeared on The Tonight Show, he joked, “I thought it was me!”
Attention K-Mart Shoppers
February 20, 1985
Audiences looked forward to one of Johnny Carson’s monologue jokes bombing, because it meant they’d get one of his famous “savers.” A favorite move would be to break into a little dance routine to a whimsical rendition of “Tea For Two” by the band. But one of Johnny’s most memorable savers was this one, when he reached up for the boom mic and used it to great comic effect.
Roseanne’s First Shot
August 23, 1985
The so-called “comedy boom” of the 1980s was powered by stand-up comics anointed by Johnny Carson. Even with the rise of HBO and cable TV, nothing could change a comedian’s life faster than a killer Tonight Show set. Roseanne Barr’s sharp, self-effacing material about life as a “domestic goddess” struck a national chord, and this appearance set the stage for her groundbreaking ABC sitcom Roseanne.
How Sweet It Was
October 18, 1985
When Jackie Gleason made his only Tonight Show appearance in 1985, Johnny Carson was visibly awed to host the man he called “one of the true comic geniuses of our times.” Gleason received a thunderous standing ovation and charmed viewers with stories of The Honeymooners and his storied career. After Gleason’s death two years later, Carson blasted the TV Academy for never honoring him, saying, “Something is wrong somewhere.”
Vlasta Krsek the “Queen Of The Polka”
December 10, 1985
Born in Czechoslovakia, accordion-playing entertainer Vlasta Krsek was a Chicago favorite whose exuberance stole the show during her Tonight Show debut. Her sheer joy at being there was infectious, and Johnny clearly shared in it. Not long after, she brought that same spirit to the big screen with an appearance in the parade sequence of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
An Audience Member Steals the Show
December 19, 1985
When a scheduled pianist canceled, Johnny Carson asked if anyone in the audience could play. David Tolley—dressed in jeans and flip-flops—volunteered and delivered a flawless rendition of “Memory” from Cats. Viewers thought it was staged, but Carson assured them, “We just got very lucky.” Tolley returned for a second appearance and went on to a successful career composing for film and television.
The Great Fruitcake Put-Down
December 20, 1985
Johnny Carson turned the fruitcake into a national punchline. In a 1985 holiday sketch, he joked that someone had sent him one—only for stagehands to wheel it out on a forklift, underscoring its legendary weight. Carson’s recurring fruitcake jokes, including “There is only one fruitcake in the world, and people keep sending it to each other,” were so influential they helped drive the dessert’s reputation—and sales—into a generational decline.
No Censors Here
April 3, 1986
Producers told Frank Zappa not to bring up his fight against music censorship during his first sit-down with Johnny Carson—but it turned out that’s all Carson wanted to talk about. Setting aside his prepared questions, Carson told Zappa he’d found his Senate testimony on the topic fascinating and quizzed him about it for the better part of two segments.
Sharp Dressed Host
May 16, 1986
When ZZ Top made their first live TV appearance, Carson appeared at the end of their performance in full ZZ Top disguise—beard, hat, and dark glasses. Backstage, comedian Paula Poundstone mistook him for a real band member until he tore off the beard. “No, it’s me,” he said—perhaps the first time in decades Johnny Carson hadn’t been recognized instantly.
Letterman’s Truck Trial
June 27, 1986
In a saga that played out over a pair of visits from David Letterman in 1986, Johnny Carson had his protégé’s battered red Chevy pickup towed from Letterman’s Malibu home and unveiled on The Tonight Show stage. Two months later, in a mock trial presided over by People’s Court judge Joseph Wapner, Letterman playfully fumed that Carson had stolen his beloved clunker, while Carson argued the 13-year-old truck was an eyesore illegally parked on county property.
Art Fern Loses His Moustache
September 3, 1986
Johnny Carson initially had no idea why the audience erupted in laughter during one of his Art Fern sketches—until he felt his upper lip and realized his fake moustache had fallen off. Carson did his best to try to recover before ultimately bailing on the sketch altogether in what would become one of the show’s most famous bloopers.
Johnny Does Magic Trick for 4-Year-Old Spelling Bee Champ Rohan Varavadekar
March 12, 1987
If you had to choose one clip to prove why Johnny Carson was the greatest of them all, this might be it. His ability to draw out a child’s natural charm is masterful—letting young Rohan shine without condescension or cheap laughs. The wonder in Rohan’s eyes as Johnny grants his wish for a magic trick is pure joy, and the punchline about how to make money disappear? Classic Carson. Perfection. No notes.
Pop Queen, Late Night King
June 9, 1987
Madonna was already a global pop star when she visited Carson’s Tonight Show to promote her movie Who’s That Girl. Playfully flirting with him, she confessed, “I’m a talk show virgin,” before adding, “I figured if I was gonna present myself as a virgin to anyone, it should be you.”
Buddy Hackett’s Duck Joke
August 27, 1987
Right up there with Rickles, Rodney, and Winters, Buddy Hackett’s appearances were always appointment viewing. Often he’d push the boundaries of what the censors would allow. Other times it was just his complete and total commitment to a joke that delivered the goods. The last of the three jokes in this segment is the latter. It’s a long journey but one worth taking.
Johnny and the Potato Chip Lady
October 16, 1987
One of Carson’s most memorable “regular people” guests was 63-year-old Myrtle Young, who collected potato chips shaped like objects and animals. As she proudly displayed her collection, Johnny pretended to eat one, giving her the shock of her life. It was a quintessential Carson prank, mixing mischief with warmth.
Bette Davis and Martin Short
January 7, 1988
Carson’s Tonight Show often created magic via the alchemy of guests coming together on the same show. Even for a flicker of a moment, as occurs here when Martin Short comes bursting forth with his trademark energy, kicking off his segment with an impression of screen legend Bette Davis, who was the lead guest and was seated next to him on the couch. Davis doesn’t seem to recognize that Short is doing her in the moment, so it’s only after he rattles off his impressions of David Steinberg, Jerry Lewis, and Katherine Hepburn that she inquires if he also does her.
Bill Clinton’s Saxophone Comeback
July 28, 1988
Bill Clinton may owe his presidency to Johnny Carson. In 1988, the then-Arkansas governor delivered a convention speech so long and dull it nearly ended his national ambitions. Just a week later, he redeemed himself on The Tonight Show, joking with Carson about the flop and then surprising viewers by joining Doc Severinsen and the NBC Orchestra for a saxophone rendition of “Summertime.” Pundits called it one of the fastest political turnarounds ever.
Jane Fonda asks Johnny about Zsa Zsa Gabor
September 15, 1989
There is perhaps no more apocryphal anecdote in the history of television than the exchange that supposedly occurred between Johnny and Zsa Zsa Gabor when she appeared on the show as a guest with a cat perched in her lap. As no tape existed of the incident, Jane Fonda asking Johnny point blank about whether or not it actually happened will have to suffice.
Funeral for a Thesaurus Editor
April 6, 1990
Deep into his long tenure as host of The Tonight Show, Johnny was facing fierce competition from younger, hungrier rivals. Still, he remained in top form right to the end—as evidenced by this sharp, funny sketch where the premise alone delivers all the laughs you need.
Tommy Newsom Upstages Johnny
March 14, 1991
While less visible than Ed and Doc, NBC Orchestra saxophone player Tommy Newsom would occasionally step into the spotlight as fill-in bandleader. Johnny always seemed endlessly tickled by Tommy’s dull and dim exterior. Was it an act? Does it matter?
A Farewell Between Friends
May 9, 1991
Terminally ill with pancreatic cancer, actor Michael Landon made one final Tonight Show appearance in 1991—his 40th in nearly three decades. Gaunt but good-humored, he spoke candidly about his diagnosis and the importance of optimism, transforming what could have been a somber farewell into a moment of warmth and grace between two friends. He died less than two months later.
Johnny Mourns His Son
July 17, 1991
After his youngest son Rick died in a June 1991 car accident, Carson took four weeks off The Tonight Show. On his return, he closed the show with a rare public tribute, calling Rick “an exuberant young man” with a contagious laugh. A photo montage played to Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Riviera Paradise.” The five-minute segment was understated but deeply moving. Reflecting years later, Doc Severinsen said, “Johnny was never the same, ever, after that.”
Madeline Kahn Talks Phobias
July 18, 1991
Johnny was never crude, but he understood that late night was the perfect place for a little playful mischief. So when guest Madeline Kahn confessed she had a mortal fear of seeing balls coming toward her face, Johnny’s reaction was instantaneous—and unforgettable. It was a perfectly timed, Pavlovian response.
Robin Williams and Jonathan Winters
September 19, 1991
Jonathan Winters and Johnny Carson were old friends, dating back to their early days starting out in New York. Carson was always captivated by Winters’ boundless improvisational brilliance. Robin Williams, who often called Winters his greatest influence, joined the two legends for this unforgettable appearance. The result is as warm and wonderful as it is hilarious. Fun fact: Winters’ 100th birthday falls just 19 days after Johnny’s—on November 11.
Steve Martin’s The Great Flydini
May 6, 1992
Even before Steve Martin donned his white suit as the “Wild and Crazy Guy” and became an SNL legend, he was celebrated for his inventive Tonight Show appearances—like the time he performed stand-up for a line of real dogs. After movie stardom led him to quit stand-up, this final visit during Johnny’s last month felt both historical and hysterical. Fun fact: Lifelong Martin fan Judd Apatow now owns the Pavarotti puppet featured here.
Bette Midler Sings ‘One For My Baby’
May 21, 1992
Johnny Carson’s penultimate Tonight Show is best remembered for Bette Midler’s tender serenade to Johnny. She performed several songs that night, including “Miss Otis Regrets,” “You Made Me Love You,” Carson’s favorite “Here’s That Rainy Day,” and “One for My Baby (and One More for the Road).” During that last number, the camera caught an uncharacteristically openly emotional Carson. Midler’s Emmy-winning performance remains one of the most iconic moments in Tonight Show history.
Johnny’s Final Goodnight
May 22, 1992
After three decades, Johnny Carson said farewell in a quiet, heartfelt hour with no guests—just Ed McMahon, Doc Severinsen, and a record 50+ million viewers. Carson wrote his monologue himself, reflecting on the joy of doing what he loved and thanking the audience that made it possible. Seated on his stool, visibly moved, he signed off with grace, humor, and one last “heartfelt good night.”
Want more Johnny? Read about the stories behind these classic moments and more in Mark Malkoff’s new book, Love Johnny Carson, in bookstores now.
Get stories like this in your inbox: Sign up for LateNighter’s free daily newsletter.
