Pioneers of Television

Late Night (1x2)

: 09, 2008

The distinct contributions and unique personalities of Steve Allen, Jack Paar and Johnny Carson headline this episode. "Johnny always wanted you to do well," Jay Leno recalls, "you'd hear him laughing in the corner with Ed, or he'd poke Ed, or he'd hit the table. And of course, this was a cue to the audience that you were accepted." This episode features many of the most important figures to emerge on the late-night scene. Merv Griffin gives his last interview before passing away, and Regis Philbin offers revelations about his years as a late night sidekick to Joey Bishop. Dick Cavett and Arsenio Hall provide insight into how their shows broadened the late-night audience. For the first time, Sigourney Weaver offers personal details about her father, Pat, inventor of Tonight and one of the most visionary TV executives ever.