Introduction
O
n October 15, 1974, Johnny Carson welcomed his next guest on The Tonight Show with the words, “I imagine there are very few people in this country who are not aware of Kathryn Kuhlman.” He continued, “She probably, along with Billy Graham, is one of the best-known ministers or preachers in the country.” After a few more words of introduction, Carson announced Kuhlman. Doc Severinsen led The Tonight Show orchestra as she stepped through the iconic curtains into one of the most famous studios in television history. The applause continued as she greeted Carson, whose attention was then drawn to the enthusiastic studio audience. As the clapping abated, Carson informed the television viewers that Kuhlman had received a standing ovation from as many as one hundred members of the live audience. After he and Kuhlman exchanged pleasantries, Carson paused, looked intently at Kuhlman, and stated in a courteous manner, “You have been called hypnotic, charismatic, hypnotizing . . .” Kuhlman smilingly protested that she was “just the most ordinary person in the world.” Carson disagreed, replying, “You’re not quite ordinary. I find you fascinating.” Kuhlman smiled.1 To be dubbed “not quite ordinary” by the king of late-night television in 1974 represented a triumph for both Kathryn Kuhlman and charismatic Christianity, the brand of Christianity she represented. Since people like Kuhlman were once caricatured by the public as “holy rollers,” “pew jumpers,” and more recently “charismaniacs” and “Jesus freaks,” Carson’s interest in interviewing her was nothing short of remarkable. His wry comment that she was not “quite” ordinary—as if she could be considered even in the proximity of ordinary—was in fact a significant 1