STATEMENT ON DEATH OF JOHNNY CARSON

STATEMENT FROM BOB WRIGHT, VICE CHAIRMAN, GE AND CHAIRMAN AND CEO, NBC UNIVERSAL:

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Johnny Carson today. Johnny was a part of our NBC family for more than thirty years, long after his retirement in 1992, and he was a dear friend to both me and my wife, Suzanne. As host of "The Tonight Show," his gift was the ability to make millions of Americans feel they too had a close friendship with Johnny. His professional and usually anonymous personal generosity launched the careers of countless stars and helped thousands of people. With his lightning quick wit, effortless delivery, and immense charm, he was without peer in late-night television. His death marks the passing of a show-business legend and a man of warmth and sincerity. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Johnny's wife Alex and his entire family.

STATEMENT FROM JAY LENO:

No single individual has had as great an impact on television as Johnny. He was the gold standard. It's hard to believe he's actually gone. This is a tremendous loss for everyone who Johnny made laugh for so many years.