Johnny Carson

by Ronald L. Smith

The best book on Carson that was available at the time. It's still a fun read. For a more "inside" look, try the bio by "Bombastic" Bushkin, which takes the reader through Carson's last days on TV and last days, period. "Pleasing...more replenishing than Paul Corkery's "Carson." Smith is much tighter, more straightforward, (including) a charming interview with Carson's first grade school girlfriend...touches all the bases and nicely seasoned with that Carson wit." Kirkus Reviews "Smith's strong suit is his presentation of the battles between network management and Carson, shedding some light on the influences that come to bear when a star uses his television vehicle as leverage for money and power...His fans will be pleased." The Washington Post "It is an eminently readable compilation of facts and anecdotes, and an insightful portrait of the performer." Back Stage "Anecdote filled. Like Paul Corkery's recent "Carson," Smith's account was written without the subject's cooperation, but