When it came to giving up-and-coming comedians a major foothold in the entertainment business, Johnny Carson was a true kingmaker. If a comic was on The Tonight Show and Carson was pleased with their performance, that person really had it made. His approval was thought to be like gold. Back in the day, Carson had just about every top young comedian on The Tonight Show stage. One outstanding jokefest from a comic could launch a career,
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But there was one who gained Johnny Carson's favor, then reportedly lost it. Ironically, that individual came roaring back and eventually became part of The Tonight Show's history.
Jay Leno First Performed on 'The Tonight Show' in 1977
Leno, 75, the popular New York-born comic, took a while to get on the storied stage of the late-night TV showcase watched by millions. Per the book Love Johnny Carson by Mark Malkoff, Leno made many attempts to be on the program. Finally, after receiving some helpful pointers from Carson, Leno got his first booking on The Tonight Show.
It went very well. Carson was happy with this young man's talent. He shook Leno's hand after he finished his set and said, "Jay Leno is his name. We're going to have him back."
After That Initial Success, Things Soured for Leno
According to the book, Jay Leno made four more Tonight Show appearances. But his fifth one, unfortunately, was a flop. Leno reportedly paid a hefty price for having an off night. He found himself banished for good from The Tonight Show.
Two Tonight Show staffers supposedly talked to each other about what led to Jay Leno getting the cold shoulder. Producer Peter Lassally allegedly described what went awry to Jim McCawley, a talent scout for the show. He was blunt. "Johnny just doesn't like him. He doesn't like his jokes. That's not going to change... Once he doesn't like someone, he doesn't start liking them later."
Johnny Carson Eventually Relented
It took some time, but after Jay Leno became extremely successful, he was brought back on The Tonight Show in 1986. He started regularly subbing for Johnny Carson at that time. When Carson at last retired in 1992, it was Leno who took over as host. He remained in that role until 2009. What a turnaround!
