The “King of Late Night” Johnny Carson helmed NBC’s flagship The Tonight Show from 1962 to 1992. One of America’s favorite television personalities for many years, Carson won numerous awards, including six Primetime Emmys, was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George HW Bush.
A born performer, Carson entertained the local kids in his Norfolk, Nebraska hometown with his magic act. During World War II, he served in the Navy where he decoded encrypted messages, posted a 10-0 amateur boxing record, and entertained the Secretary of the Navy with a card trick. After the war, his The Squirrel’s Nest program, which was a local television show in Omaha, became a cult hit inspiring such comedy luminaries as Red Skelton and Jack Benny to give the young writer/performer a chance. As the host of Who Do You Trust, he met his future straight man/sidekick Ed McMahon, famous for his Tonight Show introduction “Heeeeere’s Johnny!!!” In 1962, Carson succeeded Jack Parr as the host of The Tonight Show, which was broadcast from New York until 1972 when the show moved to Los Angeles. Carson retired in 1992, though he continued to send jokes to his longtime friend and host of the CBS show Late Night with David Letterman. Carson died in 2005 in Los Angeles.
Before his move to Los Angeles, Carson called New York home. His former mansion in suburban New York City, a Colonial-style manor still known as “The Carson Ballfield” because he let the local kids play baseball in the yard, has hit the market for $5.3 million. Also owned by Fritz Siebel, illustrator of the beloved “Amelia Bedelia” children’s series, and featured in an episode of MTV’s “Teen Cribs”, the stone mansion was converted from a barn in the 1920s and has undergone numerous renovations to create the 9,923 square-foot home that stands today.
Eye-popping aerial view of the estate, pool area and tennis court of Johnny’s former estate
A lovely estate and grounds. Inside the home, high ceilings, big windows, and seven fireplaces create inviting spaces. Dark wood floors and accents, plus gorgeous custom built-ins, add an atmosphere of class. The massive chef’s kitchen includes a center island and top-of-the-line appliances. Seven bedrooms are complemented by three custom offices, one with full wood paneling.
Lush gardens surround the old-world pool area
One of my favorite aspects of Johnny’s estate is the elegant pool area, complete with a jacuzzi and ample lounging space. Surrounded by greenery, the pool area is perfect for relaxation, with a large umbrella-covered seating area for shade. The stonework and landscaping create a luxurious outdoor oasis.
The living room is an interesting mix of old and contemporary
The living room is an interesting mix of old and contemporary. The result is it exudes warmth and sophistication, featuring a large brick fireplace framed by rich wood paneling. Plush, modern furniture contrasts with the traditional elements, creating a comfortable and inviting space. The wooden beams and soft lighting enhance the room’s elegant charm.
A multi-season sunroom with fan and fireplace
Natural light pours into this cozy sunroom, where green paneling and a fireplace create a welcoming retreat. A glass coffee table and cream-colored armchairs complement the warm tones of the sectional. The ceiling fan and surrounding windows ensure a bright and airy feel year-round.
Office oozes old-world charm
The study or library features wood-paneled walls and built-in bookshelves, offering a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Two comfortable armchairs sit by a glass coffee table, creating an intimate seating area. Large windows and tasteful art pieces add character to this well-appointed room.
The dining area is all about contemporary meets cozy
In the dining area, contemporary meets cozy with soft upholstered chairs surrounding a sleek white table. French doors on either side open to the outdoors, offering easy access to al fresco dining. The built-in shelves add both function and a personal touch to this clean, minimalist space.
Spacious kitchen with beautiful and functional built-ins throughout
The rich wood cabinetry in this kitchen adds a sense of warmth and luxury. A large center island provides ample prep space, with barstool seating for casual meals. The kitchen flows seamlessly into a small workspace, making it a practical hub for both cooking and daily tasks.
This casual kitchen dining area embraces simplicity with a sleek white table and soft, upholstered chairs
This casual kitchen dining area embraces simplicity with a sleek white table and soft, upholstered chairs. Track lighting above adds a modern touch while French doors on either side invite in natural light. The built-in shelving provides a functional yet stylish storage solution, complementing the clean, open feel of the space.
The full-size fitness center includes a private sauna and indoor cabana bath
The full-size fitness center includes a private sauna and indoor cabana bath. The grand living spaces connect to wrap-around covered terraces and blue-stone walkways that offer seamless indoor-outdoor living and panoramic views. Set on almost two acres, the property offers pickleball and basketball courts, a stunning pool-and-spa surrounded by beautiful mature trees, gazebos, and manicured landscaping.
Interesting angles and nooks make the primary bedroom interesting
A spacious primary bedroom with a vaulted ceiling offers both comfort and privacy. The plaid cornice above the windows brings a playful, classic touch to the serene neutral palette. A built-in desk and bookshelves create a functional corner for work or study, blending seamlessly with the room’s design.
Rye is a small coastal town on the NY/CT border, within the boundaries of the New York City Metropolitan Area. Less than an hour by train or car from Manhattan, the idyllic location offers multiple golf courses and yacht clubs, plus shopping, dining, coastal wetlands, and a history dating back to the 1600s. Rye is the birthplace of actors Jason Bateman and Nick Kroll, and the former home of Robert and Ethel Kennedy. The wider Westchester County area is home to numerous major celebrities, including Richard Gere, Rooney Mara, Mary J. Blige, and Jon Voight.
All photos are used with permission from TopTenRealEstateDeals.com.
