Joanna Holland, formerly known as Johanna C. Ulrich, gained prominence as the third wife of the renowned American talk show host, Johnny Carson. Born in 1940, Joanna’s exact birthdate remains undisclosed, but it is known that she spent her formative years in New York and is of Italian descent.
Little is revealed about Joanna’s upbringing, except for her close relationship with her mother, Linda, and her brother, Peter. Her family’s roots trace back to Italy before settling in the United States, likely in New York.
Joanna embarked on a modeling career, where fate intervened, bringing her into the orbit of Johnny Carson. Their meeting at the famed 21 Club, where Johnny was dining with fashion designer Molly Parnis, sparked an instant connection. In a whirlwind romance, they married secretly shortly after their encounter.
Their marriage surprised many, but challenges soon arose, including Johnny’s drinking problems and a perceived sense of loneliness. Despite efforts to weather the storms, their union ended in divorce on March 8, 1983, after a decade together.
Before Johnny, Joanna was married to Tim Holland, a golfer and backgammon titleholder. Their marriage, which commenced in 1960, faced turbulence and ultimately ended in 1966. They shared a son, Joe Holland, who tragically passed away in 1994.
Beyond her marriages, Joanna made significant contributions to the fashion industry, playing a pivotal role in the creation of Michaele Vollbracht’s fashion brand and serving as Vice President. She also engaged in humanitarian endeavors, notably supporting the Women’s Guild Cedars-Sinai and the Rape Treatment Center in Santa Monica. Additionally, she founded the organization Share Happily and Reap Endlessly, dedicated to aiding individuals with mental health issues.
Known for her sophisticated tastes and penchant for luxury, Joanna’s life has not been without controversy, including legal disputes with former partners. Notably, her divorce settlement with Johnny Carson amounted to $20 million, underscoring her place in his life and legacy.
Joanna Holland remains a figure of intrigue, blending elements of glamour, resilience, and philanthropy in her life’s narrative.