Johnny Carson Audiobook [Free Download by Trial]

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Johnny Carson by Henry Bushkin

The readers can download Johnny Carson Audiobook for free via Audible Free Trial.


Summary

A revealing and incisive account of the King of Late Night at the height of his fame and power, by his lawyer, wingman, fixer, and closest confidant From 1962 until 1992, Johnny Carson hosted The Tonight Show and permeated the American consciousness. In the ’70s and ’80s he was the country’s highest-paid entertainer and its most enigmatic. He was notoriously inscrutable, as mercurial (and sometimes cruel) off-camera as he was charming and hilarious onstage. During the apex of his reign, Carson’s longtime lawyer and best friend was Henry Bushkin, who now shows us Johnny Carson with a breathtaking clarity and depth that nobody else could. From the moment in 1970 when Carson hired Bushkin (who was just twenty-seven) until the moment eighteen years later when they parted ways, the author witnessed and often took part in a string of escapades that still retain their power to surprise and fascinate us. One of Bushkin’s first assignments was helping Carson break into a posh Manhattan apartment to gather evidence of his wife’s infidelity. More than once, Bushkin helped his client avoid entanglements with the mob. Of course, Carson’s adventures weren’t all so sordid. He hosted Ronald Reagan’s inaugural concert as a favor to the new president, and he prevented a drunken Dean Martin from appearing onstage that evening. Carson socialized with Frank Sinatra, Jack Lemmon, Jimmy Stewart, Kirk Douglas, and dozens of other boldface names who populate this atmospheric and propulsive chronicle of the King of Late Night and his world. But this memoir isn’t just dishy. It is a tautly rendered and remarkably nuanced portrait of Carson, revealing not only how he truly was, but why. Bushkin explains why Carson, a voracious (and very talented) womanizer, felt he always had to be married; why he loathed small talk even as he excelled at it; why he couldn’t visit his son in the hospital and wouldn’t attend his mother’s funeral; and much more. Bushkin’s account is by turns shocking, poignant, and uproarious — written with a novelist’s eye for detail, a screenwriter’s ear for dialogue, and a knack for comic timing that Carson himself would relish. Johnny Carson unveils not only the hidden Carson, but also the raucous, star-studded world he ruled.

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9 comments

  • I loved reading this book. It provided a well-rounded and unbiased perspective, and I could relate to many of the experiences described based on my own interactions with people. However, I'm certain that the public had no idea about Johnny Carson's true personality behind closed doors. The narrator did an excellent job, and their ability to capture Carson's voice added depth to the entire book. I'm really happy that I picked this up, as it didn't diminish my opinion of Carson in any way. We all have both positive and negative aspects, and his were just more amplified due to the significant impact he had on people. It also highlights the influence our parents have on shaping who we become.
  • This book tells an intriguing and interesting story about one of my favorite Comedians, Johnny Carson. Johnny had both generous and demanding sides. He could be rude, self-centered, harsh, and vulgar towards others, but he also loved to laugh, have fun with friends, and indulge in activities like tennis, boating, and enjoying the company of women. It's a rags to riches tale, but Johnny's difficult relationship with his mother Ruth brought bitterness into his personal life and affected his relationships. Despite the ups and downs, Johnny had a fulfilling life with a successful career, multiple wives, children, and thriving business ventures. His estate was worth over 450 million dollars when he passed away, but it is sad that he died alone without friends, family, or his wife by his side. The book provides insight into Johnny's life from the perspective of his lawyer and ex-friend Henry Bushkin, but it's important to remember that this is only one viewpoint. The absence of interviews with Johnny's longtime pals and celebrity friends like Ed McMahon and Doc Severinsen is noticeable. However, the book does offer an enjoyable look into the behind-the-scenes world of early television history. I highly recommend it, but be warned that there is cursing and strong language throughout. Thank you, Johnny, for the countless late-night laughs. You are truly missed, and late-night TV has never been the same without you.
  • This audiobook is a fantastic tale about an iconic figure in American entertainment. It is skillfully crafted and serves as a heartfelt tribute to the special bond between Carson and Bushkin. Thumbs up!
  • I found this book to be extremely captivating. While watching Johnny Carson on TV, it was easy to assume that he led a joyful life. However, delving into his troubled childhood revealed that no amount of wealth could truly make him feel content. I must say, it was an incredible read!
  • I'm usually a fan of biographies, so I naturally gravitated towards this one about Johnny Carson. I must say, the perspective on this legendary entertainer was captivating. It had a mix of uplifting and heartbreaking moments, making it a truly engaging read.
  • Johnny Carson was a true legend of the small screen. This audiobook delves deep into his personal life, giving us a glimpse into the reality behind his iconic television persona.
  • This book about Johnny Carson, through the perspective of Henry Bushkin, offers a truly captivating and engaging narrative. It's a captivating account that sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Carson's life, leaving you with a sense of sadness and surprise.
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