NBC Plans a Mini-Series on Life of Johnny Carson

NBC will feature one of its icons, Johnny Carson, in an ambitious biopic mini-series, the network announced on Thursday.

The timing of the special was not announced, nor the crucial decision on who will play Carson. That was in contrast to NBC’s announcement earlier this summer of another mini-series based on Hillary Clinton. In that case, the casting of Diane Lane was central to the announcement.

The Carson mini-series will be based on a long-awaited biography of the late-night star by Bill Zehme, who also will serve as an executive producer on the show. His book, “Carson the Magnificent: An Intimate Portrait,” is to be published by Simon & Schuster, although its publication has been delayed several times.

Mr. Zehme is known to have gained access to many of Carson’s personal and professional associates. NBC said the mini-series would include details on Carson’s personal life, going back to his childhood in Nebraska.