Who hosted The Tonight Show from 1962 until 1992?

Johnny Carson hosted The Tonight Show from 1962 until 1992.

Carson began presenting the NBC program on October 1, 1962, succeeding Jack Paar. His tenure lasted nearly three decades and made him one of the defining figures in American television comedy.

The program featured Carson’s monologue, celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and performances. His announcer and frequent comedic partner was Ed McMahon, whose introduction became famous: “Here’s Johnny!”

Carson retired on May 22, 1992. Jay Leno then became the regular host, although David Letterman had also been widely discussed as a possible successor. Carson’s run is distinct from the show’s earlier hosting periods under Steve Allen and Jack Paar.