Editorial: Carson the magnificent

Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005 | 9:17 a.m.

Johnny Carson earned his fame in one of the hardest ways imaginable -- through laughter. From 1962 to 1992 his "Tonight Show" was a surefire respite from the cares of the day. Carson's natural wit brought out the best in his guests. His skits were hilarious and no one had a better eye for emerging talent. His death Sunday at age 79 leaves us all feeling nostalgic for the nights when that stage curtain would open and we would hear Ed McMahon announce, "Heeeeere's Johnny!"

Carson's passing is particularly felt here in Las Vegas, where from 1964 to 1980 he was a regular headliner. Also, from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, he co-owned the local independent TV station, KVVU Channel 5.

During Carson's reign as the undisputed "king of late-night," he was as well known as anyone in the country. Yet he never forgot his hometown of Norfolk, Neb., where he lived from 1934 until he joined the Navy in 1943. He donated millions to worthy causes in Norfolk, including the senior center, a cancer center, the library, the community college and an arts center. He also donated millions to the University of Nebraska, his alma mater.

No one ever swung an invisible golf club like Carson. Or inspired Don Rickles to go crazier. Or so consistently caused people to laugh, and to spread the laughter the next day at the office. If there is one thing the world needs, it's humor. And the world sure needed Johnny Carson.