Johnny Carson and Jay Leno: why is one revered, and the other despised?

Comedians used to revere Carson because he wielded such power. Back in the days of 3 networks, he was king of late night for so long. An appearance on The Tonight Show launched a career. A nice word from Carson, or an invite to sit after a monologue? You were golden.

I think those of us who remember those days, however, realize he was not a saint in real life, but a depressive, petty, and rather mean-spirited alcoholic.

PS: no one ever revered Jay Leno except Jay Leno.

Johnny had his issues, but he was VERY generous and helpful to comedians, including those who were starting out in the business. The Tonight Show under his tutelage was the make it or break it point for a comedian. You hadn't "arrived" until you had done Carson. Many comedians also became regular guest hosts on his nights off.

Leno, by contrast, refused to have anyone guest host because he was insecure and worried that someone might do better than him and take his job. He also didn't go out of his way to promote anyone who wasn't already well established. It was a completely safe, predictable, and banal environment. Which is why it is all but forgotten.

Carson was a funny, creative, and fearless weisenheimer. His various characters (Art Fern, the Great Carnac, etc.) were great. And he'd give a go with anything once, especially holding wild animals. Nobody ever did a better deadpan look, not even Jack Benny, or was quicker with a quip. Plus, those were the days when guests didn't come on just to promote a project; they might have been great raconteurs, or intellectuals, or stars who simply were interesting or humorous.

I read a quote in Gore Vidal's memoir 'Palimpsest', where an unnamed, I think called famous, late night host said ' I really hate people', Vidal:' Yes, haha' 'No, I really hate people.' I thought it was Merv Griffin, not knowing he I think didn't do late night, pretty sure it was specifically named a late night host, not just a show host, because both were gayish; but then later on I figured it was probably Johnny Carson. I read some rumors that Carson had a thing for 12-year-old boys, which I read about Vidal as well, so there is also a nod to Carson. I think Carson was also mentioned in 'Palimpsest' with an anecdote.

Well, you can't believe much of what Gore Vidal said as the truth. He's like Darwin Porter.