considered to play TV writer “Rob Petrie” in a sitcom by Carl Reiner called Head of the Family. Reiner starred in the pilot, but it was decided that someone else should play the role. However, on the suggestion of producer Sheldon Leonard, Dick Van Dyke was given the part, and the series was retitled The Dick Van Dyke Show. He was also a guest star in two episodes of Get Smart!
The Tonight Show
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Carson became host of NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in October 1962, after Jack Paar left the previous March. His announcer and sidekick was Ed McMahon throughout the program. His opening line, “Heeeere’s Johnny” became a hallmark.
Most of the later shows began with music and the announcement “Heeeeeere’s Johnny!”, followed
