Peter Lassally, a veteran late-night television producer known for guiding major hosts and programs, dies at 93. Multiple outlets report that Lassally worked with Johnny Carson on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” and with David Letterman on CBS’s “Late Show.” He also produced “The Late Late Show” with Craig Ferguson.
Sources describe Lassally as a leading figure in late-night production, sometimes referred to as a “host whisperer” for his role in shaping and supporting the talk-show format and the on-air talent behind it. The Hollywood Reporter notes that Lassally began his career with Arthur Godfrey and later spent 23 years with “The Tonight Show.” It also reports that he was involved in facilitating Letterman’s move to CBS. Deadline and Variety similarly emphasize his long-term influence across the late-night franchises associated with Carson, Letterman and Ferguson.
Lassally’s death is reported as occurring Sunday, July 19. He had retired at age 82, according to one account.
