Richard Wolcott Carson, affectionately known as Rick, was the middle child of the legendary television host Johnny Carson and his first wife, Joan Morrill Wolcott. Born on June 18, 1952, in California, Rick’s life was marked by both the privileges and challenges of being in the public eye due to his father’s fame. Despite the spotlight, Rick endeavored to carve out his own identity, pursuing passions that led him to a career in photography.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Wolcott Carson |
| Nickname | Rick |
| Date of Birth | June 18, 1952 |
| Date of Death | June 21, 1991 |
| Age at Death | 39 |
| Place of Birth | California, USA |
| Place of Death | Near Cayucos, California, USA |
| Profession | Photographer |
| Parents | Johnny Carson & Joan Morrill Wolcott |
| Siblings | Christopher “Chris” Carson & Cory Carson |
Early Life and Family Background
Rick was the second of three sons born to Johnny Carson and Joan Morrill Wolcott. His older brother, Chris, was born in 1950, and his younger brother, Cory, in 1953. The family relocated from New York to California as Johnny’s career in television gained momentum. Despite the move, the Carsons maintained a relatively private family life, with Johnny’s demanding career often taking precedence.
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Career and Passion for Photography
After serving in the U.S. Navy, Rick pursued a career in photography, focusing on capturing landscapes and nature. His work reflected a deep appreciation for the natural world, though he remained largely out of the public eye. In June 1991, while photographing along the California coast, Rick tragically lost his life in a car accident. He was 39 years old.
Tragic Passing
On June 21, 1991, Rick’s vehicle plunged down a 124-foot embankment near Cayucos, California. Authorities reported that he was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries. A camera tripod was found nearby, suggesting he had been photographing the coastal scenery at the time of the accident.
Johnny Carson’s Tribute
In the wake of his son’s death, Johnny Carson took a brief hiatus from “The Tonight Show.” Upon his return, he honored Rick’s memory by sharing photographs taken by his son and speaking fondly of him on air. Johnny described Rick as “an exuberant young man, fun to be around,” and expressed pride in his son’s work and character.
Legacy and Remembrance
Rick’s untimely death left a lasting impact on his family and the public. His passion for photography and his efforts to live independently of his father’s shadow are remembered fondly. Though he lived a relatively private life, Rick’s legacy endures through the memories of those who knew him and the photographs he left behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Richard Wolcott Carson?
Richard Wolcott Carson, known as Rick, was the middle son of Johnny Carson and his first wife, Joan Morrill Wolcott. He was a photographer who sought to establish his own identity separate from his father’s fame.
2. What happened to Richard Wolcott Carson?
Rick tragically died in a car accident on June 21, 1991, when his vehicle plunged down an embankment near Cayucos, California.
3. How old was Richard Wolcott Carson when he died?
He was 39 years old at the time of his death.
4. What was Richard Wolcott Carson’s profession?
Rick was a photographer, specializing in landscape and nature photography.
5. Did Richard Wolcott Carson have any siblings?
Yes, he had two brothers: Christopher “Chris” Carson and Cory Carson.
6. What did Johnny Carson say about his son after his death?
Johnny Carson honored Rick by sharing his photographs on “The Tonight Show” and described him as “an exuberant young man, fun to be around,” expressing pride in his son’s character and work.
7. Was Richard Wolcott Carson married?
There is no public record of Rick being married.
8. What was the cause of Richard Wolcott Carson’s death?
The cause of death was a car accident; his vehicle went over an embankment, and he was ejected from the car, resulting in fatal injuries.
9. Where did Richard Wolcott Carson live?
At the time of his death, Rick resided in North Hollywood, California.
10. How is Richard Wolcott Carson remembered?
Rick is remembered for his passion for photography and his efforts to live independently of his father’s celebrity. His legacy lives on through the memories of his family and friends.
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