Joanna Carson, Johnny Carson’s Third Wife, Dies at 93

NEW YORK, Aug. 5,2025 – joanna Carson,the third wife of legendary talk show host Johnny Carson,has died at the age of 93. Her death was privately announced in July,with a private funeral ceremony held last week.

Carson,a former high-profile fashion model in New York City,was married to the “Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” host from 1972 to 1985.

The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation acknowledged her passing Wednesday in a social media post. “Remembering ETAF’s dear friends and supporters, Joanna Carson and Wallis Annenberg, who embodied our Founder, Elizabeth Taylor’s spirit of love and support,” the foundation shared on Facebook.Joanna Carson met johnny Carson in 1971 at a New York City restaurant. The following year, Johnny Carson divorced his second wife, Joanne Copeland. Joanna Carson had previously been married to Tim Holland from 1960 to 1966. They had one son, who died in 1994.

Did you know? – Johnny Carson was a prolific entertainer, hosting “The Tonight Show” for 30 years, becoming a cultural icon and influencing late-night television.

Johnny Carson announced his marriage to Joanna in September of an unspecified year, according to a 1978 article. The couple separated in 1982 and divorced in 1985, reaching a $20 million settlement. As part of the divorce, Joanna Carson received their Bel air home and several New York City apartments, along with artworks, including pieces by Picasso.

During the divorce proceedings, Joanna Carson had sought $220,000 per month in spousal support.Ultimately, the agreement stipulated $35,000 per month, as reported at the time.

Pro tip: – High-profile divorces often involve complex asset division and spousal support negotiations, as seen in the Carson case with its significant settlement and ongoing payments.

Johnny Carson’s first marriage was to Joan “jody” Morrill Wolcott, from October 3, 1949, until their divorce in 1963. They had three sons: Chris, born in 1950; Rick, born in 1951, who died in a car accident in 1991 at age 39; and Cory, born in 1953.

Johnny Carson’s final marriage was to Alexis Maas in 1987. They remained married until his death in January 2005 at the age of 79.

Joanna Carson’s death follows closely on the heels of the news that Johnny Carson’s son, christopher Carson, died earlier this year at age 74.His death was confirmed by his father’s longtime friend, Howard Smith. No cause of death was provided.

Reader question: – What impact do you think a celebrity divorce has on the public perception of the individuals involved? Share your thoughts.