And Michael had one special tradition.
Every night, he watched Johnny Carson.
For Michael, The Tonight Show was more than entertainment. It was a small escape from the pressures of everyday life. After long hours at work, he would sit in his old recliner with Emily beside him and watch Carson’s monologue. He knew the timing of the jokes. He knew the expressions. He knew the moments when Carson would pause before delivering a punchline.
Sometimes Michael would repeat Carson’s jokes at dinner.
Sometimes he would practice Johnny’s famous golf swing in their backyard.
Emily once asked her father why he loved Johnny Carson so much.
Michael gave an answer she never forgot.
“Because when I watch him, I forget that life is hard. He makes me believe that no matter how bad things get, there’s always something to smile about.”
For Michael, Johnny Carson represented hope.
