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It might seem impossible to remember what you were watching on May 22, 1992, but I'm betting you tuned into the Tonight Show on NBC that evening. It was the end of an era, as late night king Johnny Carson said his final farewell to an audience of millions, marking the passing of the torch to a new generation of after hour hosts.
His final words as he abdicated the throne:
"I can only tell you that it has been an honor and a privilege to come into your homes all these years and entertain you. And I hope when I find something that I want to do — and I think you would like — and come back, that you’ll be as gracious in inviting me into your home as you have been. I bid you a very heartfelt good night."
Johnny Carson Bid an Emotional Farewell on His Final Tonight Show Broadcast, 34 Years Ago
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What a classy way to go out! This is very much unlike the current crop of late night talk show hosts.
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Johnny Carson did one thing and he did it very well - he entertained us. When the numbers and his own gut told him it was time to go, he went. After he left, he didn’t spend time on the sidelines sniping at those who took on his role. Instead, he spent with family and friends, wrote a few articles for The New Yorker and sailed his beloved sailboat.
There are a lot of entertainers who would do well to learn this lesson. Yield the stage gracefully and with dignity, and you’ll be fondly remembered years after you’re gone.
Last edited by BowmanvilleBob (May 26, 2026 4:59 pm)
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If I recall correctly, his only other TV appearances after he left was as a guest voice on The Simpsons and a surprise walk-on on The David Letterman Show to a long standing ovation. And that was it. As far as I know, he never appeared on TV again.
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i particularly enjoyed the segment where they showed clips of guests who have passed on. Quite moving actually. Brought back many memories.