Johnny Carson’s iconic Malibu house is a stunning modern estate designed by architect Ed Niles and spanning over four acres near Point Dume Beach. The 7,083-square-foot home features expansive 30-foot-high glass ceilings, an indoor arboretum, panoramic ocean views, and luxurious amenities including a main suite with his-and-hers bathrooms, a guesthouse, a sunken tennis court, a koi pond, a waterfall, a pool, and a wine tasting room. Carson lived there from the mid-1980s until he died in 2005, making it his beloved sanctuary overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John William “Johnny” Carson |
| Date of Birth | October 23, 1925 |
| Place of Birth | Corning, Iowa, USA |
| Date of Death | January 23, 2005 |
| Place of Death | West Hollywood, California, USA |
| Profession | Television host, comedian, writer |
| Known For | Hosting The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962–1992) |
| Net Worth at Death | Approximately $200 million to $300 million (varies by sources) |
| Salary Peak | Up to $25 million annually during his career peak |
| Philanthropy | Left bulk of fortune to John W. Carson Foundation; donated millions to charities |
| Last Residence | Had a notable Malibu estate in California (sold after his death), and a former estate in Rye, New York |
| Current Residence | Deceased since 2005; no current residence |
Who is Johnny Carson’s?
Johnny Carson, born John William Carson on 23 October 1925 in Corning, Iowa, was an American television host, comedian, and writer best known for hosting NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” from 1962 to 1992. He is widely regarded as the King of Late Night Television, having established the standard format for TV talk shows and influencing many successors. Carson won six Primetime Emmy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Kennedy Center Honors. He passed away on 23 January 2005, in Los Angeles, at the age of 79. Carson’s legacy encompasses his casual and witty interview style, as well as his transformative impact on late-night TV talk shows.
Where does Johnny Carson currently live?
Johnny Carson, the late “Tonight Show” host, lived in a Malibu, California, beach home from the mid-1980s until he died in 2005. The Malibu estate, situated on about four acres with ocean views, includes a primary residence with two bedrooms, a guest house, a pool, a tennis court, and a koi pond. Since Carson’s passing, the Malibu home has changed ownership, most recently owned by Sidney and Caroline Kimmel since 2007, who preserved its original design intent. Carson also previously owned a Colonial-style manor in Rye, New York, but he sold it when he moved to California. Currently, no evidence indicates that Johnny Carson lives anywhere since he passed away in 2005.
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The history of the Malibu house – how Carson acquired it and its unique features
Johnny Carson’s Malibu house is as iconic as the man himself. Acquired in 1972, it became a sanctuary for the legendary talk show host. Perched on a stunning cliffside, it offered breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
The unique architecture reflects mid-century modern design, characterized by clean lines and open spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Carson’s love for entertaining was evident in his home’s layout. Expansive decks wrap around the property, perfect for hosting summer soirées or casual dinners under the stars.
A tour of the interior and exterior of the house, including notable rooms and design elements
Stepping into Johnny Carson’s Malibu house is like entering a piece of Hollywood history. The exterior boasts sleek lines and expansive glass walls that blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
The lush landscaping provides privacy while framing breathtaking ocean views. Every corner invites you to relax in nature’s embrace.
Inside, the living room radiates warmth with its cozy fireplace and rich wood accents. Here, laughter mingled with applause as iconic moments unfurled during intimate gatherings.
The kitchen pays homage to culinary creativity, featuring state-of-the-art appliances alongside timeless design elements. Guests often found themselves drawn to the sunlit breakfast nook—a perfect spot for morning coffee.
The famous guests who frequented the Malibu house, including celebrities and political figures
Johnny Carson’s Malibu house was a magnet for the rich and famous. The glimmering ocean view provided not just beauty but also an air of exclusivity.
Celebrities flocked to his coastal retreat. Stars like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball found solace within those walls. Conversations flowed freely over cocktails as laughter echoed through the rooms.
Political figures were often part of the mix, too. Presidents’ aides and influential senators mingled with Hollywood legends, creating a unique blend of power and entertainment.
Behind-the-scenes stories from Carson’s time in the house, as told by former staff members
Former staff members often share fascinating anecdotes from their time at Johnny Carson’s Malibu house. Many describe the warm, inviting atmosphere that permeated the property. It was a place where laughter echoed through the hallways and genuine friendships blossomed.
One former chef recalls preparing extravagant meals while Carson regaled everyone with tales of his late-night adventures on The Tonight Show. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel like they belonged, regardless of their status.
Housekeepers remember spotting famous guests slipping in for impromptu visits. They would sometimes catch stars like Robin Williams or Bette Midler sharing secrets by the pool, laughing as if they were just old friends catching up after years apart.
The legacy of the Malibu house
| Feature | New York Mansion | Malibu Mansion |
|---|---|---|
| Address | 7 Puritan Road, Rye, Westchester, New York | 6962 Wildlife Rd, Malibu, CA 90265 |
| Architectural Style | Stately Colonial-style (converted barn from 1928) | Modern elegance with sharp angles, wood finishes, designed by Ed Niles in 1978 |
| Size | About 9,923 sq ft on 1.94 acres | Main house 7,083 sq ft on 4 acres |
| Rooms | 6 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, 1 half-bath, 3 offices | 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, plus guest house with 2 additional bedrooms |
| Special Features | Chef’s kitchen, 7 fireplaces, high ceilings, motor court, tennis court | 30-ft high glass ceiling, indoor arboretum, ocean terrace, pool, waterfall, koi pond, tennis courts, gym, wine room |
| Year Built/Converted | 1928 (converted from barn) | Built in 1978 |
| Purchase Price by Carson | Purchased in 1959 (price not specified) | Purchased in 1984 for $9.5 million |
| Current/Last Known Worth | Listed for $5.3 million (as of 2024) | Estimated worth over $81 million (listing price in 2017 was $81.5 million, price reduced since) |
| Historical Significance | Known as “Carson Ballfield” for baseball played on property; site where Carson lived and developed his career | Carson’s California retreat offering privacy, spectacular ocean views, and lifestyle amenities |
| Other Notes | Renovated over years, retains charm | Owned by billionaire Sidney Kimmel post-Carson; Carson lived here until his death in 2005 |
Johnny Carson’s Malibu house is more than just a residence; it’s a symbol of an era. The stunning ocean views and sleek design captured the essence of Hollywood glamour. This was not only a retreat for Carson but also a gathering place for some of the biggest names in entertainment and politics.
Throughout its history, the modren house has seen countless memorable moments—from intimate dinners with celebrities to spirited discussions with political leaders. Each room holds stories that reflect both personal triumphs and shared laughter among friends.
As time goes on, Johnny Carson’s legacy continues to resonate through this iconic property. It stands as a testament to his influence on television and comedy, while also embodying the spirit of camaraderie he fostered within those walls.
Johnny Carson’s house photo
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