The Laughing Wolf

Into The Light: Johnny Carson

A legend made real has passed. I can remember the delight when I was finally old enough to formally stay up (as opposed to sneak out) to watch Johnny. His monologues were fantastic, and were worth the price of admission. His guests were good, crossed a broad spectrum, and almost always entertaining.

Extra laughs were in place one night when Blake Clark, who was someone I knew and who even taught at my high school for a short time, made his first appearance on the show. Blake had served in Vietnam, and his experiences there formed some of his earliest material. Johnny was stunned when Blake admitted that he was more scared coming on the Tonight Show than he had been in combat. He then all but collapsed in laughter when Blake came out, did his presentation, then all but fled the stage running.

Also, who can forget the night with Ed Ames? Ouch.

I could go on, for there are many from which to choose, Take your pick.

He showed class, sensitivity, and a sense of fairness that is sadly lacking today. He was a patriot, who served in the Navy in WWII, and was always kind to the men and women of our armed forces. No offense to those left behind, but none of them are fit to hold his coat, and he will always be the true host of the Tonight Show.

You have been missed for some time, but thank you for all the laughs and fun.

LW