You had to know this was coming, but it is still sad to see a television icon pass away. Ed McMahon died at the age of 86 at the Ronald Reagan/UCLA Medical Center just a little after midnight last Monday. McMahon had several health problems lately including a neck ailment, pneumonia, bone cancer, and possible illnesses due to toxic mold found in his home. He had been hospitalized since February of this year.
McMahon served in the Marine Corps during World War II, receiving six Air Medals. He started his career in broadcasting at WLLH-AM then began appearing on television at WCAU-TV in Philadelphia.
McMahon worked with Johnny Carson on the game show “Who Do You Trust” from 1957 until 1962, when Carson took over for “The Tonight Show” host Jack Paar. Bringing McMahon along with him, he served as the announcer on the show until Carson retired in 1992. McMahon became know for his hearty laugh and his opening line of “Heeeere’s Johnny.”
While still on “The Tonight Show,” McMahon began hosting the syndicated series “Star Search.” The show features such future stars as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Bill Engvall, Drew Carey, Sinbad, and Destiny’s Child. McMahon served as host for the show’s entire run from 1983 until 1995.
McMahon also became well known as Jerry Lewis’ sidekick during the annual MDA Telethon. His final appearance on the telethon was in 2008, which marked his 41st year. McMahon also appeared on “TV Bloopers and Practical Jokes” with Dick Clark from 1982 until 1998. One of his last gigs was as a rapper on a FreeCreditReport.com commercial. He was the author of two memoirs – “Here’s Johnny!: My Memories of Johnny Carson, The Tonight Show, and 46 Years of Friendship” and “For Laughing Out Loud.”
McMahon, who had six children with three wives, was in the news last year when it was revealed that he was suffering from financial problems. His multi-million dollar home was $644,000 behind in payments and he owed Citibank $180,000. McMahon’s home was eventually bought by an undisclosed buyer although Donald Trump had offered to purchase the home and allow McMahon to lease it from him.
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