What a sad, and tragic filled week it has been for those of us in Generation X who lost three icons of our youth. I don't know about you, but growing up in our house during the 1970s my parents faithfully watched The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and his side kick Ed McMahon. I can still clearly hear his voice booming out "Heeeere'ssssssss Johnny!!!!" signaling I was up way past my usual bed time.

In addition to working with Carson, McMahon was the host of the talent show Star Search from 1983 to 1995. He later also became well-known as the presenter of American Family Publishers sweepstakes.

McMahon annually co-hosted the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon. He performed in numerous television commercials, most notably for Budweiser.

Something I had not known before was that Ed started his very lengthy career as a Bingo caller. This somehow is quite fitting.

Ed McMahon passed away early Tuesday morning. He was 86 years old.

Source and Image Credit: WBZ.com