The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is an American late-night talk show hosted by Johnny Carson on NBC, the third iteration of the Tonight Show franchise. The show debuted on October 1, 1962, and aired its final episode on May 22, 1992. Ed McMahon served as Carson's sidekick and the show's announcer.
Doc Severinsen led the NBC Orchestra beginning in 1967; he held the role until the show's finale
Carson as Carnac the Magnificent, a reoccurring comedic role he introduced in 1964.
Carson's first Tonight Show on New Year's Eve, 1962; shown with Skitch Henderson and Ed McMahon
Skitch Henderson
Videos
Lyle Russel "Skitch" Henderson was an American pianist, conductor, and composer. His nickname "Skitch" came from his ability to "re-sketch" a song in a different key. Bing Crosby suggested that he should use the name professionally.
Henderson in 2000