Who Has Hosted The Tonight Show?
by
Updated May 15, 2024
The Tonight Show
"The Tonight Show" is a renowned American late-night talk show that has graced NBC's screens since 1954. It holds the prestigious title of being the world's longest-running talk show and the longest-running regularly scheduled entertainment program in the United States. Ranking as the third-longest-running show on NBC, it follows closely behind the news-and-talk giants "Today" and "Meet the Press."
The show's current iteration is filmed at Studio 6B within NBC Studios, located in the iconic Rockefeller Center in New York. This studio has a rich history, having been used during the later Jack Paar era and the initial decade of Carson's tenure. In its early days under Steve Allen, the show emanated from the Hudson Theatre on Broadway.
From 1973 to 2009, and again from 2010 to 2014, it found its home in one of three different studios at NBC's Burbank, California Studios. Notably, during Conan O'Brien's brief hosting stint, the show was produced in an extensively revamped studio on Stage 1 of Universal Studios Hollywood.
Throughout its nearly seven-decade span, "The Tonight Show" has undergone minor title changes. It initially aired as "Tonight," later transitioning to "Tonight Starring Jack Paar" and "The Jack Paar Show" due to its host's immense popularity. Eventually, with Carson taking the reins in 1962, it settled on "The Tonight Show," with the host's name always part of the title.
Who Has Hosted The Tonight Show?
The Tonight Show has had several hosts throughout its history. The very first host was Steve Allen, who debuted the show in 1953 when it was known as "Tonight". Allen's version of the show aired locally in New York, became a huge success, prompting NBC to create a national version that started in 1954.
Steve Allen was the very first host, debuting the show in 1953 when it was known as "Tonight". His locally aired version in New York became a huge success, leading NBC to create a national version starting in 1954.
Jack Paar took over as host from 1957 to 1962, focusing more on interviews with guests. He featured notable figures like Carol Burnett, Liza Minelli, and Bob Hope, as well as authors and political figures. Johnny Carson had the longest tenure as host, from 1962 to 1992, earning him legendary status in late-night TV.
He introduced iconic elements such as his sidekick Ed McMahon and the famous "Heeere's Johnny!" catchphrase. Jay Leno hosted from 1992 to 2014, with a brief hiatus in between. He was known for his stand-up comedy and popular segments like "Jaywalking."
Conan O’Brien briefly took over from 2009 to 2010, maintaining his quirky style from his previous show, "Late Night with Conan O’Brien". Jimmy Fallon became the host in 2014, bringing his comedic and musical talents to the show. He's known for entertaining games with guests and his strong social media presence.
How to Get Tickets to The Tonight Show?
If you're 16 or older and can spare 4 hours on a weekday for a taping, you can try to get tickets for The Tonight Show. First, sign up for the waitlist on 1iota.com when tickets are released, usually about a month ahead. If tickets become available, you'll get notified.
If you don't get off the waitlist, you can go to The Shop at NBC Studios at 30 Rockefeller Plaza on the day of the show between 10 AM and 3 PM for standby tickets. Get in line early for a standby card and return with your card around 3 PM. If there are cancellations, you might get a ticket.
Remember, standby tickets don't guarantee entry, and you should be prepared and follow the dress code of smart casual, no costumes.
Where Can I Watch The Tonight Show?
"The Tonight Show" 10th anniversary special celebrating Jimmy Fallon's decade has telecasted on Tuesday, May 14, at 9 p.m. EST on NBC. If you prefer streaming, you have options like FuboTV, DirecTV, and Peacock. FuboTV and DirecTV offer free trials for new users.
FuboTV is an internet-based live TV streaming service with over 100 channels, including sports, news, entertainment, and local channels. It also provides DVR storage space, making it ideal for those who want to ditch cable but still enjoy live TV and sports. Plus, it offers a wide range of content, both live and on-demand, with more than 75 live TV channels to choose from.
