Henry Bushkin: Carson's Confidant, Secrets & Tell-All Book!

Did Johnny Carson, the undisputed king of late-night television, harbor secrets that even his millions of viewers never suspected? The answer, according to his former lawyer and confidante Henry Bushkin, is a resounding yes, and the details are as captivating as they are controversial.

For nearly two decades, Henry Bushkin held a unique position in Carson's inner circle, serving not only as his legal counsel but also as a trusted friend and advisor. This close relationship provided Bushkin with an unparalleled perspective on Carson's life, both on and off the screen. Bushkin's tell-all biography, "Johnny Carson," published in 2013, has stirred considerable debate, offering a candid, and at times unflattering, portrayal of the beloved comedian. The book details not only Carson's professional triumphs but also delves into his personal struggles, including his complex relationships with women, his insecurities, and his alleged financial dealings that ultimately led to Bushkin's dismissal.

Henry Bushkin: Biography and Career Overview
Full Name Henry Bushkin
Birthplace Bronx, New York City, USA
Residence Los Angeles, California
Education Law School (Class of '66)
Occupation Attorney, Author, Producer
Known For Serving as Johnny Carson's personal attorney and confidante for 18 years. Authoring "Johnny Carson" (2013), a biography about their relationship.
Career Highlights
  • Personal attorney to Johnny Carson from 1970 to 1988.
  • Close confidante and friend to Johnny Carson.
  • Author of the biography "Johnny Carson" (2013).
  • Worked closely with Johnny Carson on various business and legal matters.
Relationship with Johnny Carson Served as Carson's personal attorney, legal advisor, fixer, and close friend for 18 years. Their relationship ended in 1988.
Published Work "Johnny Carson" (2013)
External Links
Henry Bushkin's "Johnny Carson" on Amazon

One of the most controversial claims in Bushkin's biography revolves around Carson's relationship with his children. According to Bushkin, Carson allegedly felt that his children had not given him anything to be particularly proud of, a statement that has been met with skepticism and criticism. This assertion paints a picture of Carson as a man who, despite his public persona, struggled with personal fulfillment and family dynamics.

Bushkin's entry into Carson's life was somewhat unexpected. He was a relatively junior attorney at an entertainment law firm when he was chosen by Carson to be his personal lawyer. This decision raised eyebrows, as Carson could have afforded any attorney he desired. However, Carson saw something in Bushkin, a raw talent and a loyalty that he initially valued. Their partnership began shortly after Bushkin graduated from law school in 1966, and it quickly evolved into a close personal and professional relationship.

The bond between Carson and Bushkin extended beyond the typical attorney-client dynamic. Bushkin became Carson's "fixer," handling everything from legal matters to personal crises. He was privy to Carson's most intimate secrets and was often by his side during both triumphs and tribulations. This level of access gave Bushkin a unique insight into Carson's complex personality. As Severinsen said, "I know Henry Bushkin and I knew Johnny Carson," his words carefully chosen, marking his first public statement about the book, hinting at the sensitive nature of the revelations contained within.

The relationship between Carson and Bushkin ultimately soured, culminating in Bushkin's firing in 1988. The reasons for the split were complex, involving allegations of financial impropriety and perceived disloyalty. Carson, who died of respiratory failure in 2005, never publicly reconciled with Bushkin. The circumstances surrounding Bushkin's departure remain a subject of debate, with some suggesting that Carson felt betrayed by his close friend and confidante.

Following Carson's death, Bushkin waited eight years before publishing his biography. The book's release reopened old wounds and sparked a renewed interest in Carson's life. While some praised Bushkin for providing an honest and unfiltered account, others criticized him for betraying Carson's trust and profiting from their relationship. Regardless of the criticism, "Johnny Carson" became a bestseller, further solidifying Bushkin's reputation as a controversial figure in Hollywood circles.

Bushkin's life extends beyond his association with Johnny Carson. He grew up in the Bronx, later moving to Los Angeles, where he established himself as a prominent attorney, author, and producer. He is known to millions of Tonight Show viewers by a memorable nickname, though the exact nickname is not specified in the provided text. He is currently residing in Los Angeles, continuing his work in the legal and entertainment fields.

The book reveals clandestine talks with ABC at Joan Rivers' house, the star's personal dramas, and how they ended up with one of the most outrageous contracts. These stories offer a glimpse into the inner workings of the entertainment industry and the high-stakes negotiations that often take place behind closed doors.

Beyond his professional life, Henry Bushkin's name has also surfaced in connection with various personal relationships. Most notably, he was linked to Mary Hart, the well-known television personality, in 1987. Hart, who is 74 years old, has also been romantically associated with other prominent figures, including Bruce Boxleitner, Mohamed Khashoggi, Dean Butler, and Lee Majors. These relationships underscore Bushkin's presence in the social circles of Hollywood's elite.

In conclusion, Henry Bushkin remains a figure of intrigue, forever linked to the legacy of Johnny Carson. His biography provides a valuable, though contentious, perspective on one of America's most beloved entertainers. Whether viewed as a betrayer or a truth-teller, Bushkin's account offers a compelling glimpse into the complex world of fame, fortune, and the human relationships that often lie hidden beneath the surface.

Bushkin's narrative paints Carson as a man capable of both undeniable charm and surprising coldness. It's a complex portrait that challenges the public perception of Carson as the affable and witty host who entertained millions for decades. Bushkin's biography doesn't shy away from depicting Carson's flaws and vulnerabilities, revealing a more nuanced and human side to the television icon.

The book also sheds light on the power dynamics within the entertainment industry. Bushkin, as a young attorney, was thrust into a world of celebrity and wealth, where he quickly learned the rules of the game. His experiences with Carson provided him with invaluable lessons about navigating the complex relationships and high-pressure environment of Hollywood.

One anecdote recounts how Bushkin, just a day after being hired by Carson, found himself accompanying the star and some less-than-savory characters on a late-night mission to break into an apartment, seeking evidence of something unspecified. This incident highlights the often-unconventional methods employed in the pursuit of protecting one's interests in the entertainment world.

The legacy of Johnny Carson continues to fascinate, and Henry Bushkin's biography has undoubtedly contributed to the ongoing discussion about the man behind the television screen. The book serves as a reminder that even the most beloved figures are complex individuals with their own personal demons and secrets.

The inheritance of Carson's Malibu estate by Maas also adds another layer to the narrative. The estate, where Carson lived from the 1980s until his death, represents a tangible connection to the comedian's life and legacy. The transfer of ownership highlights the enduring impact of Carson's presence in Malibu and the ongoing interest in his personal life.

The stories from behind the scenes, as revealed in Bushkin's book, offer a fresh perspective on Carson's career and relationships. These anecdotes provide a more intimate and detailed understanding of the challenges and triumphs that shaped Carson's life. The book's popularity suggests that there is a strong desire among the public to learn more about the man behind the legend.

The relationship between Henry Bushkin and Johnny Carson serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the potential for betrayal. Their story highlights the challenges of maintaining personal relationships in the high-stakes world of entertainment.

The books title itself, "Johnny Carson," is a bold statement, suggesting that Bushkin's account is the definitive biography of the comedian. While the book has been praised for its candor and detail, it has also faced criticism for its perceived bias and self-serving nature. Nevertheless, it remains an important contribution to the literature on Johnny Carson and the history of late-night television.

It is important to remember that Bushkin's biography represents one perspective on Johnny Carson's life. Other individuals who knew Carson may have different recollections and interpretations of events. It is up to the reader to consider all available information and draw their own conclusions about the man behind the legend.

While the specific details of the alleged financial chicanery and insufficient loyalty that led to Bushkin's firing are not fully elaborated upon in the provided text, it is clear that these issues played a significant role in the breakdown of their relationship. The allegations suggest that Carson felt betrayed by Bushkin's actions and that he ultimately lost faith in his former confidante.

The revelation that Carson had clandestine talks with ABC at Joan Rivers' house is particularly intriguing. Rivers, who was a frequent guest host on "The Tonight Show," had a complex relationship with Carson. The discussions with ABC suggest that there may have been underlying tensions and negotiations taking place behind the scenes.

The book also sheds light on the outrageous contracts that were common in the entertainment industry. These contracts often included clauses that protected the star's image and ensured their financial security. The details of Carson's contracts, as revealed by Bushkin, offer a glimpse into the high-stakes world of Hollywood negotiations.

The rumors surrounding Mary Hart's relationship with Henry Bushkin add another layer of intrigue to the story. Hart, who is known for her long-running career as a television personality, has been linked to several prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Her association with Bushkin further underscores his presence in Hollywood's social circles.

The books bombastic nature, as described by some critics, suggests that Bushkin did not shy away from making bold statements and expressing strong opinions. This approach may have contributed to the book's popularity, but it also likely fueled the controversy surrounding its content.

Johnny Carson's reign over the late-night airwaves was a defining moment in television history. Bushkin's presence by his side during those years provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of leading one of America's most popular television shows.

The fact that Bushkin waited eight years after Carson's death to publish his book raises questions about his motivations. Some have suggested that he was waiting for the right moment to maximize the book's impact, while others have argued that he needed time to process his experiences and reflect on his relationship with Carson.

The book's inside look at Johnny Carson reveals the complexities of the man behind the television persona. It challenges the public perception of Carson as simply a comedian and entertainer, revealing a more nuanced and human side to the icon.

The day after Henry Bushkin was hired by Johnny Carson, he accompanied Carson and some thugs in the night as they broke into an apartment searching for proof of something is a glimpse into the unconventional methods sometimes employed in the entertainment industry.

Joan Rivers in Conversation With Henry Bushkin About the Dark Side of

Joan Rivers in Conversation With Henry Bushkin About the Dark Side of

Joanne Carson/ Joanne Copeland Johnny Carson's Second Wife (bio wiki)

Joanne Carson/ Joanne Copeland Johnny Carson's Second Wife (bio wiki)

Copyright Henry Bushkin and Johnny Carson original scan 1982 johnrieber

Copyright Henry Bushkin and Johnny Carson original scan 1982 johnrieber

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