It's almost hard to believe, but Ed McMahon died June 23 after a lengthy struggle with bone cancer. He was 86 years old. Although the younger generation may only associate Ed with the Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes, to many of us older Americans Ed was best known for his role in late night television entertainment. His role as the announcer for Johnny Carson in
The Tonight Show was particularly memorable with his famous introductory line… "
And… Heeeeeere's Johnny!"
Believe it or not, Ed McMahon was not always a television personality. He began his vocational life as a bingo caller at the age of 15. During World War II Ed was a decorated fighter pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps. He also served in the Korean War.
It was not until the mid 1950's that Ed McMahon entered into his television career where he appeared in several television game shows. By 1957 he had begun working with his long time friend, Johnny Carson, first in the game show Who Do You Trust, and later in The Tonight Show.
Well, Ed, you'll be sorely missed. We salute you for your service to our country and to millions of television viewers. Say "Hi" to Johnny for us. God bless you and may you rest in peace.
