Johnny Carson's Four Marriages: A Career and Love Journey

Johnny Carson, the legendary American television host, was married four times during his life. Despite his famous line about finding a woman who hates him and giving her half of his money, his marriages spanned over several decades and involved multiple partners. Let's explore the details of each of Johnny Carson's marriages.

First Marriage: Joanne Copeland (1948-1954)

Johnny Carson's first marriage was to Joanne Copeland from 1948 to 1954. Copeland was an aspiring actress who shared Carson's interest in entertainment. They met while both were working in the early days of television. Their relationship flourished, and they were married. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1954, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Johnny Carson in his personal and professional life.

Second Marriage: Joanne Carson (1954-1972)

After his divorce from Joanne Copeland, Johnny Carson married Joanne Carson, also known as Joan, in 1954. This was a much more successful relationship that lasted for 18 years. Joanne provided stability and support during one of Carson's most productive periods, as he was becoming well-known in the entertainment industry. They had a close and loving relationship, allowing Carson to focus on his career. They divorced in 1972, which was a momentous year for Carson as well, since his show ldquo;The Tonight Showrdquo; was entering its golden age.

Third Marriage: Alexis Maas (1987-2005)

At the age of 68, Johnny Carson married Alexis Maas, a woman 48 years his junior, in 1987. This marriage was a surprise to many and marked a significant shift in his personal life. The couple was known to be in a committed relationship and remained together until Carson's death in 2005. Alexis Maas was a supportive wife who helped Carson during his later years, providing companionship and care. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect and love.

The Notorious Third Ladyline

While Johnny Carson's marriages were notable, he did have many other romantic encounters throughout his life. In one of his famous segments, Carson confessed to a "notorious third ladyline," which was a common practice among television personalities of the time. This line refers to the stability and longevity of his second marriage, while acknowledging his frequent relationships with women beyond his wives. Despite his numerous affairs, Carson's second marriage to Joanne Carson was particularly long-lasting and was often celebrated.

Conclusion

Johnny Carson's life was a tale of both professional and personal triumphs. While his marriages and romantic relationships were a significant part of his life story, they also represent the complexities of fame and success. His marriages to Joanne Copeland, Joanne Carson, and Alexis Maas, each with their distinct stories and timelines, paint a picture of a man who was both a loving husband and a man of the world.

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