John William `` Johnny '' Carson ( October 23 , 1925 -- January 23 , 2005 ) was an American actor , comedian and writer . He is best known as the host of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson . John William `` Johnny '' Carson ( October 23 , 1925 - January 23 , 2005 ) was an American television host and comedian , known as host of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson for 30 years ( 1962 â `` 1992 ) .