1980 - Mayor Leland Ayers Names Johnny Carson Burbank Goodwill Ambassador to the World

1980

Mayor Leland C. Ayers presents host Johnny Carson with a proclamation naming him “Burbank Goodwill Ambassador to the World” on the set of “The Tonight Show.” The proclamation reads: “City of Burbank. WHEREAS this year marks Johnny Carson’s 18th anniversary as host of the Tonight Show on NBC television; and WHEREAS over the years Johnny Carson has entertained more than 40 billion viewers, a formidable record for any performer; and WHEREAS in celebration of this anniversary I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate Johnny Carson on the many years of good humor and imagination he has provided us; and WHEREAS Johnny Carson’s humorous remarks about Burbank have focused the television spotlight on our City; NOW, THEREFORE, because of the national recognition he has developed for our City, I am proud to honor and proclaim JOHNNY CARSON as Burbank Goodwill Ambassador to the World. [Signed] Leland C. Ayers, Mayor, City of Burbank. September 24, 1980.” Carson hosted “The Tonight Show” from 1962 until his retirement in 1992, and moved the program’s production from New York to Burbank in 1972. Carson’s successor, Jay Leno, continued to record the show in Burbank until 2014, when it was moved back to New York with new host Jimmy Fallon. Notes on the back of the photo: “Lee Ayers, Mayor, after 5-1-1980 presenting to Johnny Carson comedian talkshow host as the Goodwill ambassador for Burbank.”

3000 W. Alameda Blvd, Burbank, CA 91523

• Burbank (Los Angeles County, Calif.)
• Mayors
• Ayers, Leland C.
• Carson, Johnny, 1915-2005
• Television Talk Show Hosts
• Comedians
• 1980s

7 x 9¾ b&w print

Burbank Public Library, Burbank in Focus Office

cco01284

City Clerk's Office