The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is celebrating the 100th birthday of Johnny Carson, one of the university’s most iconic and generous alumni. The “King of Late Night,” who made America laugh for decades, would have turned 100 on Oct. 23.
Carson’s legacy as a Husker is one of unwavering support. He made an enduring impact on generations of Husker students.
“Johnny Carson’s legacy at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln goes far beyond entertainment,” Chancellor Rodney D. Bennett said. “He opened doors for generations of students to dream bigger, create boldly and find their voice. He inspired us to believe in what’s possible — and that spirit lives on in every student whose path is shaped by his generosity.”
At age 44, Carson made his first gift to the university — $5,000. Gifts from Carson, his estate and the Johnny Carson Foundation have exceeded $50 million. His philanthropy included founding the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts; supporting the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film and the broadcasting program; renovations to the Lied Center for Performing Arts and the Temple Building; and student support for more than 400 Husker students.
Carson was born in Corning, Iowa, on Oct. 23, 1925, and grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska. After serving as an ensign in the Navy during World War II, he enrolled in the University of Nebraska. He received a bachelor of arts in radio and speech with a minor in physics in 1949. While at the university, Carson honed his comedic skills and embraced the art of storytelling, laying the groundwork for his remarkable career.
From 1962 to 1992, Carson was the host of the “Tonight Show,” which was a touchstone of American culture for decades. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992 and the Kennedy Center Honors Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993. Carson passed away in 2005 at the age of 79.
All through the years, Carson was a Husker at heart, referencing Nebraska frequently enough that practically everyone who knew of Johnny Carson would have placed “Nebraskan” prominently in his biographical sketch. He remained connected to Nebraska — as reflected in his voiceover in the university’s 2024 institutional spot, “Home Again.”
“Johnny Carson was a proud and grateful graduate,” said Brian F. Hastings, president and CEO of the University of Nebraska Foundation. “He was always humble about his giving, quietly uplifting generations of Husker students. The legacy of Johnny Carson continues to resonate at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.”
Carson’s affection for Dear Old Nebraska U could not be contained during the 1993 Kennedy Center Honors when his smile burst forth during a surprise performance of “There Is No Place Like Nebraska” by the Cornhusker Marching Band.
Carson’s pride in Nebraska and his experience as a Husker always burned brightly.
“I got my start in the Temple Building and have never forgotten the impact of my academic studies at the University of Nebraska on my life and career,” he said.
Johnny Carson’s 100th birthday events, Lied Center for Performing Arts
- Marilyn Maye: Celebrate with the legendary Marilyn Maye, who holds the record for the most guest appearances by a singer on the “Tonight Show.” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22
- Carson Tonight 100: Relive the magic and laughter of Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” with the talented artists who were featured guests during his extraordinary 30-year late-night run. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23
