Chicago is paying tribute to one of the most influential figures in television history with a special pop-up exhibit dedicated to Johnny Carson. The Museum of Broadcast Communications has reopened in a new location in the West Loop, showcasing a collection that celebrates Carson’s legendary impact on late-night television. This exhibition coincides with the upcoming centennial of Carson’s birth on October 23, 2023.
The museum, which closed for a couple of years, is launching this exhibit as a major highlight of its rebranding efforts. “We are looking at the legacy of Johnny Carson,” said Dave Plier, the museum’s executive director. “He turns 100 years old on Thursday, which is when we are actually going to open this museum with a really big event Thursday night.” The exhibit promises to provide insights into Carson’s early life and his extensive career, which spanned over three decades until his retirement in 1992.
A Journey Through Carson’s Career
Plier has curated a variety of artifacts from Carson’s life, including a childhood magic book that inspired his passion for entertainment. “His magic book is really the book that got him out of his shell as a teenager,” Plier explained. This exhibit aims to encapsulate the essence of Carson’s influence, featuring a stunning re-creation of the iconic Tonight Show set, complete with the desk, microphone, and the famous couch that became synonymous with late-night entertainment.
Chicago woodworker Dan Sullivan played a crucial role in this endeavor by meticulously constructing Carson’s desk from scratch. Using photographs from the original set and precise measurements, Sullivan ensured the replica resonates with authenticity. “They also had drawn up a sketch of some proportions, some dimensions that were critical for us to be able to accurately reproduce this replica,” Sullivan remarked.
The exhibit also includes the famous multicolored curtains through which Carson and his guests would walk. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of the show first-hand. “His show was iconic. Iconic guests,” Plier noted. “There were so many moments in Tonight Show history that you really get to experience here at the museum once again.”
More Than Just Carson
In addition to the focus on Carson, the pop-up museum features several cherished artifacts from its extensive archives. Among these are nostalgic items from Chicago television history, such as the set from Bozo’s Circus, Svengoolie’s original coffin, and Bill Jackson’s puppet, The Blob. These items evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up watching television in Chicago.
For fans of local radio, there is an exhibit dedicated to the history of legendary radio station WLUP, known as “The Loop.” “It was all about Jonathan Brandmeier, Kevin Matthews, and Steve and Garry. Icons in Chicago,” Plier stated, crediting Rick Kaempfer for curating this segment, highlighting his comprehensive work on the station.
The museum, located at 440 West Randolph Street, will open to the public on October 20, 2023, and is expected to remain operational until February 2027. This unique exhibit not only commemorates a television legend but also serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many visitors.
In summary, the Chicago Museum of Broadcast Communications is set to offer a captivating glimpse into the life and legacy of Johnny Carson, inviting fans to engage with the history of late-night television in a way that is both fun and educational.
