Joanna Carson Has Died—Model, Philanthropist & Johnny Carson’s Former Wife Remembered

In a quiet post shared by the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation this August, the world learned something it hadn’t expected: Joanna Carson had passed away in July 2025.

For those who remember her, she wasn’t just Johnny Carson’s third wife—she was a model, a generous soul, and someone who carried herself with grace both in public and in private. The news hit social media fast, sparking an emotional wave of memories, tributes, and curiosity about a woman who spent much of her life out of the spotlight—but never far from impact.

Why Everyone’s Talking About Her Again

After the foundation’s post went up, fans, old friends, and even a few fashion insiders began sharing stories and photos—many remembering her beauty and kindness, others surprised they hadn’t heard from her in years.

And while her name does bring up Johnny Carson for a lot of people, it’s important to note—this Joanna Carson isn’t the same as Joanne Copeland, Johnny’s second wife. Different women, different stories, same confusingly close names.

From NYC to Runways—Joanna’s Early Years

Before she was Joanna Carson, she was Johanna Ulrich, born in New York City. She had that thing—presence. She didn’t just model; she knew how to own a room, even as a young woman starting out in the late ’60s.

She made a name for herself fast. By the 1970s, she was walking major runways, landing editorial features, and commanding top-dollar rates. This wasn’t someone who just married into fame—she built a life of her own first.

Falling for Johnny

Joanna met Johnny Carson in 1971 at Manhattan’s 21 Club. According to friends, they talked every day for a year before anything romantic began.

Then, during a special Tonight Show 10th anniversary episode, Johnny surprised his audience by introducing his wife—Joanna. No public engagement. No warning. Just classic Johnny showmanship.

They married in 1972 and stayed together until 1985, when Joanna filed for divorce. That didn’t stop Johnny from joking about their split on air:

“She was a regal presence in my life,” he once said, smiling through the punchline.

What She Did After the Cameras Turned Off

Unlike many public figures, Joanna didn’t chase the spotlight after her marriage ended. Instead, she gave her time and money to SHARE, a nonprofit supporting children with developmental challenges.

She also backed designer Michaele Vollbracht, helping him relaunch his label. Joanna was the kind of person who believed in others and put her money where her heart was.

Later, she got involved in Broadway—not as an actress, but as a producer. She played a role in bringing shows like American Psycho, Beetlejuice, and American Buffalo to life. Colleagues described her as smart, sincere, and deeply invested in the creative process.

How She’s Being Remembered

When the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation shared the news of her passing, they described her as someone whose “generosity and spirit will live on in countless lives.”

Actress Ruta Lee remembered Joanna’s grace and sense of loyalty, once comparing her to Josephine—Napoleon’s great love—saying she “knew how to lead with strength and softness at the same time.”

A Few Clarifying Notes

Let’s be clear—

• Joanna Carson (née Johanna Ulrich) was Johnny’s third wife. She passed in July 2025.
• Joanne Copeland was his second wife, and she passed in 2015.

Yes, the names are similar. No, they’re not the same person.

Her Life in Highlights

Marriage to Johnny Carson

• 1971: Met at 21 Club
• 1972: Surprise wedding on The Tonight Show
• 1985: Divorce finalized

Philanthropy & Charity Work

• SHARE supporter
• Longtime donor to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation

Broadway Credits

• American Psycho (2016)
• Beetlejuice (2019, 2022)
• American Buffalo (2022)

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A Quiet Legacy That Meant a Lot

Joanna Carson never needed to be in the headlines. She had beauty, sure, and she lived a glamorous life—but what people seem to remember most about her now is her kindness, her eye for talent, and the way she showed up for the people and causes she cared about.

She lived well. She gave generously. And even if most people didn’t know it until now, she made a real difference.