Ed McMahon, Johnny Carson’s sidekick on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” for 30 years, died on Tuesday at age 86.
The veteran TV personality, best known for his nightly introduction of Carson in a deep, booming voice with the drawn-out line, “Heeeeeeeeere’s Johnny!” died at a Los Angeles-area hospital, spokesman Howard Bragman said.
“He died early this morning with his wife and loved ones by his side,” Bragman said.
McMahon had been battling pneumonia and other illnesses for about the past month. Bragman declined to confirm or deny reports that the performer had been diagnosed with bone cancer.
McMahon and Carson first worked together in 1957 as announcer and host on the daytime game show “Who Do You Trust?” The duo moved “Tonight” in 1962 when Carson succeeded Jack Paar.
