Johnny Carson, 1925-2005

Take a look back inside the life of one of America's most beloved television personalities. By Beth Lipton

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LATER YEARS

Carson (pictured Jan. 2 in Malibu), who listed tennis, drumming and astronomy among his hobbies, spent his later years privately. He had quit smoking in 1989 but died from emphysema. When asked years ago what he wanted on his tombstone, Carson quipped: "I'll be right back."