Johnny Carson Revealed the 9 Golden Age Guests Who Were ACTUALLY EVIL

Johnny Carson, the legendary host of “The Tonight Show,” is known for his wit, charm, and ability to engage with a wide range of guests. However, behind the scenes, he had his fair share of controversial figures on his show. Here’s a look at the nine guests from the Golden Age of television that Carson reportedly considered to have darker sides, often described as “actually evil.”

1. Frank Sinatra

Despite being a beloved icon, Sinatra had a reputation for being involved with organized crime and had a volatile personality. Carson often found himself navigating the complexities of Sinatra’s presence, balancing admiration with caution.

2. Joan Crawford

Crawford was a Hollywood legend, but her reputation as a difficult and demanding actress preceded her. Carson was reportedly wary of her unpredictable behavior and fierce temper, which could turn a pleasant interview into a tense affair.

3. Richard Nixon

The former president’s appearance on “The Tonight Show” was marked by controversy. Carson had a complicated relationship with Nixon, who was embroiled in scandals and had a reputation for being manipulative and deceitful.

4. Rodney Dangerfield

While Dangerfield was known for his self-deprecating humor, there were whispers about his off-stage behavior. Carson recognized a darker side to Dangerfield’s persona, which sometimes manifested in aggressive and inappropriate comments.

5. Bette Davis

Davis was a formidable talent but also had a reputation for being ruthless in her career. Carson often found her to be difficult, as she was known for her sharp tongue and willingness to cut down others.

6. Marlon Brando

Brando was a genius actor but also had a reputation for being erratic and difficult to work with. Carson often felt the tension during interviews, as Brando could shift from charming to confrontational in an instant.

7. Elvis Presley

The King of Rock and Roll had a complicated life, marked by personal struggles and controversial choices. Carson was aware of the darker aspects of Presley’s life, including his battles with addiction, which made interviews a tense experience.

8. Liza Minnelli

While Minnelli is celebrated for her talent, Carson noted her tumultuous personal life and the influence of her family legacy. He often sensed the underlying issues that affected her behavior and public persona.

9. George Carlin

Carlin was a groundbreaking comedian known for his edgy humor and social commentary. Carson appreciated his talent but also recognized Carlin’s tendency to challenge societal norms, which sometimes crossed into darker territory.

Conclusion

Johnny Carson’s reflections on these guests reveal the complexities of celebrity culture during the Golden Age of television. While many of these individuals were beloved by audiences, their darker sides often made them challenging guests for Carson. This list serves as a reminder that fame can sometimes mask deeper issues, and even the most entertaining figures can have complicated legacies.