A special exhibit celebrating the legacy of late-night television icon Johnny Carson has opened in Chicago, marking both a tribute to his impact and a revitalization of the Museum of Broadcast Communications. The museum, which has been closed for several years, is now located in a pop-up venue in the West Loop, showcasing Carson’s storied career as the host of The Tonight Show for over 30 years until his retirement in 1992.
The exhibit coincides with the upcoming centennial of Carson’s birth on October 23, 2023. “We are looking at the legacy of Johnny Carson,” said Dave Plier, the museum’s executive director. “This opening event on Thursday night will take you through not only Johnny’s childhood but his entire legendary career.”
Plier has curated a collection of artifacts from Carson’s life, including the childhood magic book that ignited his passion for entertainment. “His magic book is really the book that got him out of his shell as a teenager,” Plier noted, emphasizing its significance in shaping Carson’s future.
One of the exhibit’s highlights is a meticulously crafted re-creation of Carson’s iconic Tonight Show set, featuring the familiar desk, microphone, and Danish modern sofa. “This is actually the exact model used on the Tonight Show,” Plier explained. Visitors will have the chance to walk through the famous multicolored curtains that marked the entrance for Carson and his guests each night.
The craftsmanship behind the exhibit is noteworthy. Local woodworker Dan Sullivan constructed the Carson desk using photographs and sketches from the original set. “They had drawn up a sketch of some proportions that were critical for us to be able to accurately reproduce this replica,” Sullivan shared.
In addition to celebrating Carson, the pop-up museum features a variety of objects from the museum’s extensive archives that had been in storage for years. Among these are nostalgic pieces like the set from Bozo’s Circus, the original coffin from Svengoolie, and Bill Jackson’s puppet, The Blob. There is also a dedicated exhibit showcasing the history of legendary Chicago radio station WLUP, highlighting figures such as Jonathan Brandmeier and Steve and Garry.
“This entire exhibit was curated by Rick Kaempfer, who wrote the ultimate book on The Loop,” Plier stated, emphasizing the importance of these contributions to Chicago’s media landscape.
The museum is located at 440 West Randolph St., and will be open to the public starting on October 20, 2023, remaining accessible through February 2027. Fans of Carson and television history alike will find a unique opportunity to engage with the legacy of a man who defined late-night entertainment for generations. Visitors will also have the rare chance to sit behind Johnny’s desk, creating a personal connection to the legendary host’s world.
