Inside Joan Rivers and Johnny Carson's Epic Falling Out
Background
Joan Rivers was an established comedian and a frequent guest on The Tonight Show with host Johnny Carson.
Rivers began her career wanting to be a dramatic actress before switching to comedy in the mid-1950s.
She struggled for many years, performing alongside famous comedians like Woody Allen and Richard Pryor.
The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson became a pivotal platform for emerging comedians, which launched Rivers' career.
Breakthrough on The Tonight Show
Rivers' breakthrough came on February 17, 1965, with her first appearance on Carson's Tonight Show.
Her humor and wit impressed Carson, leading to a successful career with many appearances and writing gigs.
Rivers became a regular substitute host for Carson by 1983.
Despite multiple offers, Rivers remained loyal to Carson and NBC until tensions arose in the mid-1980s.
Rift with Carson
In 1986, Rivers was offered her own show by Fox, a $10 million contract, making her the first female late-night host.
The deal included hiring her husband, Edgar Rosenberg, as the show's producer.
Rivers did not inform Carson about the deal immediately, leading to feelings of betrayal when the news leaked.
Carson never spoke to Rivers again, feeling she had betrayed him by leaving for a competing network.
Professional and Personal Struggles
The Late Show premiered on October 9, 1986, facing challenges like refusal by affiliates to air it and a ban on guests appearing on both Rivers' and Carson's shows.
Ratings declined, and conflicts with Fox led to Rivers and Rosenberg being fired less than a year later.
The show's failure strained Rivers' marriage, leading to separation and Rosenberg's suicide.
Rivers was left in financial difficulty due to mismanagement by Rosenberg.
Comeback and Legacy
After The Late Show, Rivers hosted a successful daytime talk show, winning an Emmy.
She launched successful fashion and comedy ventures but was absent from The Tonight Show for 26 years.
Rivers returned briefly to The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in 2014.
Joan Rivers passed away in 2014 at the age of 81.
Conclusion
The fallout with Johnny Carson marked a significant phase in Rivers' career.
Despite personal and professional setbacks, Rivers' resilience allowed her to rebuild her career, leaving a lasting legacy in comedy and television.