RIP Johnny Carson

Here’s a link to Johnny Carson’s final ‘Tonight Show’ mononlogue.

And

Here’s a wonderful essay by Roger Ebert.

The news of Johnny’s death resonated strongly in me for several reasons.

First, it seems that the world is quickly running out of “living legends”. Who can replace the likes of John Wayne… John Lennon… Marlon Brando… Ray Charles… Johnny Carson? Who is left to pick up the torch?

Second, it bothered me more than just a little bit that Jay Leno (whose “people” helped force Carson from the air before he was ready to go, and who didn’t mention Johnny’s name once during his first show as the ‘Tonight Show’ host) got the first crack at a tribute, rather than the rightful heir to the throne, David Letterman, who was vacationing (in St. Barts, apparently) and in re-runs this week.

Here’s a news story which illustrates my “heir to the throne” comment perfectly.

Third, the fact that it was emphysema which took this great man affected me on a deeply personal level (which is all that I’ll say about that).

I watched Leno Monday night (something I very rarely do). His opening comments seemed heartfelt (though scripted), but somehow they rang hollow, especially recalling that first show and the conspicuous absence of any acknowledgement of the man who, essentially, created the genre (not to mention his job). The best part of the show (aside from the old clips) was Drew Carey saying: “You know, Jay, when you die, there won’t be any of this for you… maybe a segment…”

I’m anxiously awaiting Dave’s first show back on Monday.