November 14, 1985, began like thousands of other nights at NBC Burbank Studios. The lights were bright, the cameras were ready, the audience was seated, and the familiar rhythm of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was about to begin. For 23 years, Johnny Carson had been the man America welcomed into its homes every evening. He had interviewed presidents, movie stars, musicians, comedians, and countless unforgettable guests. He had survived awkward moments, unexpected answers, technical problems, and every kind of live television challenge imaginable. Carson was known for his calmness. No matter what happened, he always seemed to have control.
But on this particular night, something happened that no producer, director, or audience member expected.
