When she answered the phone and heard his voice, she thought it might be a mistake.
But it was really him.
Johnny Carson wanted to discuss Michael.
He wanted to understand what would happen if the boy came on the show and did not speak.
He wanted to make sure the experience would not become something painful.
His concern was not about television ratings.
It was about the child.
Patricia gave him an honest answer.
She explained that Michael’s silence was part of who he was.
If he sat quietly, that was okay.
The important thing was that someone finally gave him the opportunity.
And Carson agreed.
Preparing for the Biggest Moment of His Life
Three weeks later, Michael sat backstage at NBC.
For many children, appearing on television would be exciting.
For Michael, it was overwhelming.
The bright lights.
The unfamiliar environment.
The cameras.
The audience.
The strangers.
