in full John William Carson
born Oct. 23, 1925, Corning, Iowa, U.S.
U.S. television personality.
He worked as a radio announcer and television comedy writer before hosting several television quiz shows (195562). As the long-standing host of The Tonight Show (196292), he was noted for his wry monologues, comedy sketches, and genial banter, and the program became a staple for a large and faithful late-night audience.