Bootleg Betty
Today In History: 34 Years Ago, Bette Midler Was The Final Guest On Johnny Carson
By Mister D
May 21, 2026
Bette Midler’s appearance as Johnny Carson’s final guest on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (May 21, 1992) is remembered as one of the most emotional and iconic moments in late?night history.
She and Robin Williams were chosen for what many considered the “real” final episode — the last one to feature guests — even though Carson’s official farewell aired the following night without interviews.
Behind the scenes, Carson’s team pushed hard to secure Midler, knowing the symbolism of her being his last guest. Her manager initially hesitated, but writer Bruce Vilanch insisted, “Are you nuts? It’s history making!” She ultimately agreed.
Midler performed “One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)” directly to him — no applause, no comedy, just pure intimacy. Carson visibly teared up, creating one of the most replayed moments in Tonight Show history.
Midler didn’t just appear — she delivered the emotional thesis of Carson’s goodbye. Her serenade became the defining image of his departure, symbolizing the end of an era in American television.
