Chris Carson, the eldest son of late-night TV legend Johnny Carson, has died at the age of 74. His passing occurred earlier this year, more than 20 years after the death of his famous father. The news came from Howard Smith, a longtime friend and neighbor of Johnny Carson in Malibu, during a recent podcast interview.
Chris Carson, known as “Kit” to friends and family, lived in Florida. He and Smith shared a golf club membership after Smith moved to the Sunshine State. Smith learned of Chris’s death about two months ago from Johnny Carson’s nephew, Jeff Sotzing. The exact date and cause of Chris’s death have not been made public.
Johnny Carson was a major figure in American television history, best known for hosting “The Tonight Show” for three decades. Chris, however, kept a much lower profile than his father and lived a private life away from the spotlight.
Despite the limited public information about Chris Carson’s personal life, those close to the family remember him fondly. The family has not released any official statements regarding funeral arrangements or memorials.
The passing of Chris Carson is a quiet but significant moment for fans who remember Johnny Carson’s enduring impact on late-night television. It serves as a reminder of the private lives behind famous public figures.