Which host presented The Tonight Show for 30 years, from 1962 to 1992?

Johnny Carson hosted The Tonight Show for 30 years, from 1962 to 1992.

Carson took over from Jack Paar on October 1, 1962, and his version became one of the most influential programs in American television history. His opening monologue, interviews, comedy sketches, and recurring characters made him a defining figure of late-night entertainment.

Although The Tonight Show had begun with Steve Allen in 1954, Carson's tenure is often the period most closely associated with the show's identity. He broadcast from New York at first and later from Burbank, California, as production moved west.

Carson's final episode aired on May 22, 1992. Jay Leno became the regular successor, while David Letterman—who had also been considered for the position—moved to CBS to host Late Show with David Letterman. Carson largely retired from public television appearances afterward.