Ed McMahon Dead at 86

Ed McMahon Dies at 86

Ed McMahon died what seemed to be a peaceful death in his sleep last night at the UCLA Medical Center with his wife by his side.  Mr. McMahon is most well known for being Johnny Carson’s right hand man and faithful side kick of 30 years on The Tonight Show.  Growing up in the Carson era, I spent many late nights up watching Ed start the show with his coined “Heeeeeeere’s Johnny!”

Apparently Ed McMahon had been suffering from pneumonia and had been battling bone cancer, although his cause of death has not been determined.

Late night in the 60s and 70s was an awesome time to be a TV host.  You got to smoke and drink on the air.  They always looked like they were having a blast. I can also remember watching Ed McMahon on Star Search, Bewitched and seeing him on all those Million Dollar Sweepstakes commercials.  He was the million dollar face.  Funny that he actually started his career as a bingo caller.  He did have a great voice and his smile will be missed in Hollywood.

RIP Mr. McMahon and say hi to Johnny for us.