On what date did Johnny Carson begin hosting NBC’s The Tonight Show?

Johnny Carson began hosting NBC’s The Tonight Show on October 1, 1962.

Carson succeeded Jack Paar, whose final Tonight Show episode had aired earlier in 1962. Carson’s debut established the format and persona that would define American late-night television for three decades, combining a monologue, celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances.

The program was broadcast from NBC Studios in Burbank, California, for much of Carson’s tenure. His version became one of the most influential talk shows in television history and made Carson a central figure in American entertainment.

A common mix-up is confusing Carson’s start date with the date he ended the program. Carson’s final episode aired on May 22, 1992, after nearly 30 years as host. Jay Leno succeeded him later that year.