The Perfect Sidekick for Carson—and Carnac
One of Johnny Carson's best routines, Carnac the Magnificent, was made even better by Ed’s quick-to-laugh straight man.
Johnny’s Favorite Punch Line
Johnny loved to tease Ed about his drinking, no more so than when Ed actually had a cocktail too many before one Tonight Show.
Rolling With the Jokes
As this live Tonight Show commercial proves, Ed had a great ability to roll with the punches, whether from a misbehaving basset hound or Johnny himself.
Here Comes the Prize Patrol
For years, Ed brought laughter into homes across America as the Tonight Show sidekick. Then, he brought even greater joy as the spokesman for the Publisher’s Clearinghouse Sweepstakes.
Star Searching
As the lovable host of Star Search, Ed introduced America to its future stars such as Christina Aguilera, Justin Timberlake, and the young lady in this video.
McMahon 4 Cash 4 Gold
Most stars are lucky to stay in the public eye for a few years. Ed remained a fixture on television until his death, with commercials like the recession-friendly Cash 4 Gold ad that aired during the Super Bowl.
There Can Be Only One Second Banana
In 1999, Ed took on Conan O’Brien’s sidekick, Andy Richter, and proved why he was the greatest in late-night history.
