Today is the anniversary of the longest running entertainment show in the United States. On September 27, 1954 (59 years ago!), the first episode of The Tonight Show aired on NBC. The host was 32 year old Steve Allen and the show was called Tonight Starring Steve Allen. How awesome is it that it’s been on so long- it’s older than me.
I was lucky enough to see a live taping of the show a few years ago. It was great fun. Who’s your favorite host?
Jillian Chantal 
Heeeeerrrrrrre’s Johnny. Johnny Carson was the perfect combination of dry wit and social grace. I loved watching him on the show and honestly? I stopped watching when he retired. Catch an occasional monologue these days, but it’s just not the same. Thanks for reminding me about all the laughs I had watching it. 59 years. Wow!
By: Laurie Ryan on September 27, 2013
at 10:43 am
Yep. Johnny is my favorite as well. When I did the math and realized it was 59 years, I choked. Hard to believe, isn’t it?
By: Jillian Chantal on September 27, 2013
at 11:02 am
I can’t imagine anyone not saying that Johnny Carson was the best host.He was incredible. I can still quote a dozen lines from him without batting an eye. I can’t imagine anyone ever doing it as well.He brought out the best in everyone.
(And you don’t have to remind me that 1954 was 59 years ago…I’ll thank you not to start the count NEXT year, please!)
By: Tonette Joyce on September 27, 2013
at 1:53 pm
Glad you feel so strongly about Johnny! LOL
By: Jillian Chantal on September 27, 2013
at 1:57 pm
It’s been a hard week! Although I don’t often quote the Beverly Hillbillies(!), one stand-out line fits here.Granny thought the Indians would attack so the banker hired stuntmen to humor her.m She kept asking for John Wayne to help her.When he showed up, she said,”Where was ya when I needed ya, John?”
Right now,I could say that to Johnny Carson.
By: Tonette Joyce on September 27, 2013
at 2:02 pm
I have to agree with the host of choice. I still watch it but only occasionally and usually while I’m doing last minute before bed computer stuff.
By: Lavada Dee on September 29, 2013
at 6:01 pm
I rarely watch it, either Lavada. I did enjoy the live taping I went to but it was mostly for the guest, simon pegg.
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By: Jillian Chantal on September 29, 2013
at 6:29 pm