A Little Help From Skelton
In 1953, comedian Red Skelton noticed Carson’s sketch comedy show called Carson Cellar. Skelton was impressed with what Carson could accomplish with a low-budget and asked Carson to join as a writer on his own show. When Skelton accidentally knocked himself out in 1954, Carson had the opportunity to take his place on the show.
Early Comedy Success
In 1955, comedian Jack Benny also began to notice Johnny Carson on the comedy scene. Benny asked Carson to appear in both the opening and closing portions of his show. Carson even impersonated Benny on his own show!