Joanna Carson, the former wife of comedian Johnny Carson, has died at the age of 93. Her death was confirmed in a moving statement on social media. Joanna was described as an "extraordinary woman" as fans issued touching tributes posted online after her death was announced alongside American philanthropist Wallis Annenberg's in a joint Facebook post from The Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation.

In the comments, a heartbroken fan penned: "Such a generous individuals who will be so very missed," as another echoed: "2 such wonderful women. They were such angels to ETAF." A third added: "Extraordinary women- born into different family systems, faiths, and traditions-who both used their gifts and talents to help people and animals that are discounted," another posted. As well as her charitable contributions, Joanna first burst into the spotlight during her highly publicised marriage to Johnny after they tied the knot in 1972.

The pair met the year prior, and as reported by Extra, the comedian was 15 years older than her when they first crossed paths, but after 11 years of marriage, Joanna and Johnny separated.

Their divorce was finalised three years later, and after a $20million (£15million) settlement was reached.

According to The Los Angeles Times, the model reportedly demanded $220,000 a month but was awarded $35,000 (£26,332) in spousal support a month under the agreement.

Joanna was also awarded the couple's Bel Air home, received apartments in New York City and some artwork, including works by Picasso.

Johnny Carson, who died in 2005, was best known as the beloved host of NBC's The Tonight Show, which he hosted between 1962 and 1992 during his five-decade television career.

He was previously married to Jody Wolcott between 1949 and 1963, Joanne Copeland between 1963 and 1972, and wed Alexis Maas in 1987, with whom he enjoyed a quiet life until his death in 2005.

In a 1992 interview with People, which marked the end of his career as a Tonight Show host, Carson spoke about his marriages and joked: "If I had given as much to marriage as I gave to the Tonight Show, I'd probably have a hell of a marriage."

Joanna worked closely with the charity SHARE (Share Happily and Reap Endlessly), which is the oldest charity in Beverly Hills and was launched by the wives of the Rat Pack.

During her life, she also produced productions such as American Psycho, Beetlejuice, and American Buffalo.