Which television personality, who retired in May, 1992, announced in a television interview that he was comfortable in front of an audience but awkward with people off camera?

For three decades as host of The Tonight Show, he was the epitome of cool confidence, a witty and unflappable presence beamed into American living rooms. In reality, the man behind the desk was a deeply private and introverted person. He confirmed this in a rare interview, explaining that the host's desk acted as a kind of shield, allowing him to perform for the audience. Without that barrier, in one-on-one or small group situations, he often felt shy and socially awkward, a stark contrast to his on-air persona.

Carson's reign as the undisputed "King of Late Night" lasted from 1962 until his widely-watched retirement in May 1992. His influence on television and comedy is immeasurable; a successful stand-up set on his show was the single most important launching pad for a generation of comedians, including Jerry Seinfeld (Review), Ellen DeGeneres, and David Letterman.

True to his private nature, Carson largely withdrew from the public eye after his final broadcast. His emotional farewell, which famously featured Bette Midler serenading him with "One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)," remains a landmark television moment. It was a poignant send-off for a public icon who, by his own admission, was most comfortable when the cameras were on.