Carson Ends Tonight Show: An Era of TV Concludes
Johnny Carson hosted The Tonight Show for the final time on May 22, 1992, ending a 30-year run that had begun on October 1, 1962. The final episode drew 50 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched broadcasts in television history. Carson's only guest was Bette Midler, who sang "One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)" while Carson visibly teared up. His farewell monologue included no jokes, just a simple thank-you. Carson had hosted approximately 4,531 episodes and launched the careers of countless comedians who used a Tonight Show appearance as their gateway to fame. He was offered $25 million per year to continue but declined. He never appeared on television again and died on January 23, 2005, at age 79.
May 21, 1992
34 years ago
Key Figures & Places
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