Johnny Carson, the legendary host of The Tonight Show for 30 years, died on January 23, 2005, at the age of 79. His death saddened millions of fans who grew up watching his witty and charming interviews, hilarious monologues, and iconic sketches. In this article, we will explore what was Johnny Carson’s cause of death, his remarkable career, and his lasting impact on American culture and comedy.
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What Was Johnny Carson’s Cause of Death? The Truth Behind His Illness
According to his nephew, Jeffrey Sotzing, who confirmed the news to CNN1, Johnny Carson died of respiratory failure caused by emphysema. Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that damages the air sacs and makes it hard to breathe. Carson was a longtime smoker who had announced in 2002 that he was suffering from the disease.
Carson passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he had been hospitalized for two weeks before his death. He was surrounded by his fourth wife, Alexis, and his two surviving sons, Christopher and Cory His third son, Richard, had died in a car accident in 1991.
Carson had kept a low profile after retiring from The Tonight Show in 1992, rarely appearing in public or giving interviews. He preferred to spend his time at his Malibu home, playing tennis, sailing, and writing jokes for his friend David Letterman, who hosted The Late Show on CBS. Carson also donated millions of dollars to various charities, especially those related to children, education, and the environment.
Johnny Carson: A Star Is Born
Johnny Carson was born on October 23, 1925, in Corning, Iowa, to Homer and Ruth Carson. He had an older sister, Catherine, and a younger brother, Richard. As a child, he developed a passion for magic and entertainment, performing as “The Great Carsoni” at local clubs and events. He also had a knack for comedy, impersonating celebrities and making fun of his teachers.
Carson served in the Navy during World War II, where he entertained his fellow sailors with his magic and humor. After the war, he attended the University of Nebraska, where he majored in journalism and radio He started his career as a radio announcer and comedy writer in Omaha, Nebraska, and later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he hosted various TV shows, such as Carson’s Cellar, The Johnny Carson Show, and Who Do You Trust?.
In 1962, Carson was chosen to replace Jack Paar as the host of The Tonight Show, a late-night talk show on NBC that had been on the air since 1954. Carson accepted the offer and moved to New York City, where the show was based at the time. He made his debut on October 1, 1962, and soon became a sensation, attracting millions of viewers with his charismatic personality, sharp wit, and spontaneous style.
Carson transformed The Tonight Show into a cultural phenomenon, introducing popular segments such as the monologue, the celebrity interview, the comedy sketch, and the musical performance2. He created memorable characters, such as Carnac the Magnificent, Aunt Blabby, Floyd R. Turbo, and Art Fern. He also launched the careers of many comedians, such as Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres, and Joan Rivers, who often served as his guest host.
In 1972, Carson moved The Tonight Show to Burbank, California, where he continued to dominate the ratings and influence the public opinion for the next two decades. He covered topics ranging from politics and current events to everyday life and pop culture, often making jokes that became catchphrases, such as “Here’s Johnny!”, “I did not know that”, and “How cold was it?”. He also interviewed some of the most famous and influential people of his time, such as presidents, actors, musicians, authors, and athletes.
Carson announced his retirement from The Tonight Show in 1991, after 30 years and 4,531 episodes. His final show, on May 22, 1992, was watched by an estimated 50 million people, making it one of the most-watched TV events in history. Carson said goodbye to his audience with a heartfelt speech, saying, “I bid you a very heartfelt good night.”
Johnny Carson: A Legacy to Remember
Johnny Carson is widely regarded as the greatest and most influential late-night host of all time. He set the standard for the genre and inspired generations of comedians and entertainers who followed him, such as David Letterman, Jay Leno, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel. He also received numerous awards and honors for his work, such as six Emmy Awards, the Peabody Award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Kennedy Center Honor. He was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 1987.
Carson’s death was mourned by his fans, friends, and colleagues, who paid tribute to him on their shows and in the media. His former sidekick, Ed McMahon, said, “He was like a brother to me. He was a great guy, a great talent, and a great friend.” His former guest host, Joan Rivers, said, “He was the best, a star and a gentleman.” His successor, Jay Leno, said, “He was the gold standard. He was the best at what he did.”
Carson’s legacy lives on through his videos, books, and museum, as well as through the millions of people who remember him fondly and appreciate his humor and talent. He will always be remembered as the king of late night and a true American icon. Rest in peace, Johnny Carson. You will be missed.
