"Johnny once described our relationship by saying we were as close as two people could be without being married"

This quote from Ed McMahon recommends that Johnny and Ed had a very close relationship. Johnny's description of their relationship indicates that they were nearly like a couple, however without the legal commitment. This could suggest that they had a strong bond and were extremely close friends, or it could indicate that they had a romantic relationship. In either case, it is clear that Johnny and Ed had a special connection that was unlike any other. Johnny's description of their relationship shows that he valued their relationship and felt a deep connection to Ed. It is a testament to the strength of their relationship that Johnny felt comfortable adequate to explain it in such a way.