History of Late Night TV

After some thought, it was decided that Ed McMahon deserves his own page. He never had his own national late night show, but Johnny Carson acknowledged that Ed was a key part of his success. Just like Johnny was the blueprint for late night hosts, Ed was the blueprint for what a sidekick should be. In his book "Here's Johnny: My Memories of Johnny Carson, The Tonight Show and 46 Years of Friendship", Ed discussed their special relationship. Ed had to make sure not to overstep his bounds with Johnny. He said that Johnny was envious of him when it came to social skills. Johnny hated cocktail parties and making small talk, and he admired Ed's ability to be comfortable in any setting. 

 

Before the meeting with Johnny that would change his life, Ed's media exposure was limited to the Philadelphia area. He was the host of many TV shows in Philly, and he worked as a pitch man, selling all variety of products. His skills would later come in handy as a spokesman for Budweiser, Alpo dog food and various products back in the day when The Tonight Show would have the announcer voice live commercials. 

 

Ed was proud of his service as a Marine Corps fighter pilot. He flew in World War II as well as Korea. He eventually reached the rank of colonel. 

 

In 1958 Ed's big break happened when he was tapped to be the sidekick of a guy named Johnny Carson who was doing a show called Who Do You Trust? 

 

No one can ever say that Ed rested on his laurels and did nothing but act as Johnny's sidekick. He was the second banana to Jerry Lewis for many years on the Labor Day Telethon for MDA. He was the host of Star Search, looking for up-and-coming talent. So, Johnny was not the only one who helped young performers to get their moment in the spotlight. Ed was spokesperson for American Family Publishers, awarding people with million dollar sweepstakes prizes. With Dick Clark, he co-hosted TV's Bloopers and Practical Jokes. Heck, he even played a practical joke on Johnny for the show. 

 

With his hearty laugh, his booming "Hi-O" and the trademark "Herrreee's Johnny", Ed was one-of-a-kind and a classy guy who made a significant impact on the world of show business.