Legendary TV Host Johnny Carson’s Famed Malibu Estate Hits the Market at $110 Million

TV legend Johnny Carson's former longtime California dwelling has hit the market for $110 million—two decades after he died in 2005.

The talk show host purchased the abode in the mid-1980s for $9.5 million. After he died at the age of 79 due to respiratory failure, the property went to his widow, Alexis.

In 2007, Alexis sold the property for $46 million to film producer Sidney Kimmel and his wife, Caroline.

In 2019, the Kimmels offloaded it to venture capitalist Riaz Valani and his wife, Augusta Tigrett, in an off-market deal that was valued at $40 million in cash, which was more than half off the asking price of $81.5 million.

The expansive Malibu abode, which was built in the early 1980s, has since been remodeled. It is situated on 4 acres that are divided by a public road.

"Private and secluded, the main residence is set among exquisitely curated gardens and specimen trees, with enormous walls of glass overlooking a panorama of ocean, islands, and the sparkling Queen’s Necklace," states the listing, which is held by Chris Cortazzo of Compass.

"Designed by Edward R. Niles in a dramatic composition of wood and glass triangles, the main house centers around a remarkable indoor arboretum with beautiful stone floors.

"Both a living room and a majestic entertaining venue, this stunning space is a study in filtered light and spectacular views."

According to Cortazzo, "This is one of Malibu’s most special properties with a rich history tied to a legend like Johnny Carson. Its positioning, its architectural integrity, and the location are phenomenal.

"It’s situated closer to the bluff than you could ever build today, offering sweeping views of Little Dume Beach and the cove in one direction, and panoramic coastline views stretching down the coast in the other.”

The two-bedroom, 4.5-bath property offers 7,083 square feet of living space and sits on 4.1 acres, including beach access. The light-filled home features magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean.

"The 30-foot-high glass ceiling latticed with wooden slats sits above soaring walls of glass and verdant indoor planter beds and trees," the listing notes.

"Within this grand pavilion is a comfortable living area and an artful sunken copper and glass fireplace encircled by cushioned seating."

There are formal and casual dining rooms, a media room, a wine room, as well as a terrace with ocean views. 

Adjacent to the triangular dining room is a black marble bar and lounge. The chef’s kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and a butler's pantry.

"The wood and granite chef’s kitchen wraps around a large island. Garden windows, top-quality appliances, and generous custom cabinets are supplemented by a butler’s pantry with ample room for catering," the listing says.

The primary suite takes up the second floor and includes separate bathrooms, walk-in closets, and private offices.

Outdoors, the resort-style pool is surrounded by a sun deck.

The landscape features 2 acres of manicured gardens, a koi pond, waterfalls, a tennis court, a pavilion with two guest suites with a gym and locker room, and a guesthouse.

Additional amenities include an office for staff, elevator, laundry, garage, motor court, and staff parking.

The property's lower level and lounge include a wet bar, screening room, and wine cellar.

"In addition to a three-car garage (and two Tesla chargers), there is on-site parking for about 40 cars. A legacy estate of majestic proportions and incomparable beauty, this is architectural Malibu at its finest," the listing adds.