7 / 10 (based on 13975 reviews)
The Late Show with David Letterman is an hour-long weeknight comedy and talk-show broadcast by CBS from the Ed Sullivan Theater on Broadway in New York City.
Genre: Comedy, Music, Talk-Show
Main Cast: David Letterman, Paul Shaffer, Alan Kalter, Biff Henderson
Creators: David Letterman
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22 seasons, 6691 episodes, 60-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Late Show with David Letterman (1993)
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (2015)
7.2 / 10 (based on 14287 reviews)
Stephen Colbert took over as host, executive producer and writer of THE LATE SHOW on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2015. The comedy-variety-talk show is broadcast five nights a week from the Ed Sullivan theater in New York.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Stephen Colbert, Jon Batiste, Stay Human, Jen Spyra
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7 seasons, 1207 episodes, 41.0-minute runtime
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (2014)
7.1 / 10 (based on 18479 reviews)
Jimmy Fallon hosts the Tonight Show and interviews celebrities, plays games with them and has a musical or comedic guest perform.
Genre: Comedy, Music, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Jimmy Fallon, The Roots, Steve Higgins, Questlove
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9 seasons, 1595 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962)
8.5 / 10 (based on 4030 reviews)
Host Johnny Carson performs comedy routines and chats with various celebrities.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Johnny Carson, Ed McMahon, Doc Severinsen, Skitch Henderson
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15 seasons, 9943 episodes, 105.0-minute runtime
Late Night with Seth Meyers (2014)
6.3 / 10 (based on 7550 reviews)
Seth Meyers hosts a late-night talk show.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Seth Meyers, Fred Armisen, The 8G Band, Ben Warheit
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9 seasons, 1249 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The Late Late Show with James Corden (2015)
5.7 / 10 (based on 10488 reviews)
A late-night talk show with a different interview format, where guests appear on stage simultaneously and the host sits to the left and not behind a desk, and with original segments like ‘Carpool Karaoke’.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: James Corden, Reggie Watts, Louis Waymouth, Allison Janney
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8 seasons, 1009 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
“Late Show with David Letterman” stands as a cornerstone in the landscape of American television, particularly in the realm of late-night talk shows. Its inception in 1993 marked the beginning of an era that would not only redefine the genre but also leave an indelible mark on popular culture. This article aims to explore the show’s legacy, its unique elements, and the impact it had on its audience and successors.
The Genesis of a Late-Night Legend
Before “Late Show with David Letterman” came into being, David Letterman was not a stranger to the late-night scene. Having hosted “Late Night with David Letterman” on NBC since 1982, his move to CBS in 1993 was a significant shift in the late-night television landscape. This move was spurred by NBC’s decision to appoint Jay Leno as Johnny Carson’s successor on “The Tonight Show,” a role Letterman had hoped to fill. Thus, “Late Show with David Letterman” was born, airing directly against “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” setting the stage for one of television’s most memorable rivalries.
A Show of Firsts
“Late Show with David Letterman” was groundbreaking in many ways. It was filmed at the historic Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, a venue steeped in television lore. Letterman’s version of the late-night talk show was innovative, blending traditional elements with his unique brand of humor. The show was a mix of celebrity interviews, musical performances, and various segments that often broke the mold of what was expected in a late-night format.
Top Ten Lists
One of the show’s most iconic features was the “Top Ten List,” a humorous compilation of items related to current events, pop culture, or completely arbitrary themes. This segment became so popular that it not only became a staple of the show but also influenced other programs and media.
Stupid Pet Tricks
Another notable segment was “Stupid Pet Tricks,” where viewers were invited to showcase their pets performing unusual or funny tricks. This segment was a testament to Letterman’s ability to find humor in the mundane and to connect with his audience in a relatable way.
The Letterman Effect
David Letterman’s influence on the late-night talk show format and television, in general, cannot be overstated. His approach to comedy, his interactions with guests, and his willingness to push boundaries set a new standard for what a talk show could be.
A Unique Interview Style
Letterman was known for his distinctive interview style. He could be irreverent, sarcastic, and sometimes even confrontational, but he always remained genuinely interested in his guests. This approach led to memorable interviews that often revealed more about the interviewees than they intended.
Innovations in Comedy
Letterman’s show was a breeding ground for comedic talent and innovation. Many of today’s most respected comedians and writers got their start or were influenced by their time on the “Late Show.” The show’s willingness to experiment with format, segments, and humor played a significant role in shaping the comedic landscape.
The Cultural Impact
“Late Show with David Letterman” was more than just a television program; it was a cultural phenomenon. It influenced not only other television shows but also the broader pop culture discourse.
Influence on Other Shows
Many elements that were pioneered on “Late Show” have become standard features in the late-night talk show genre. From the offbeat segments to the engaging street interviews, Letterman’s fingerprints can be seen across the late-night landscape.
A Platform for Musicians
The show was also a significant platform for musical artists. Being invited to perform on the “Late Show” was a badge of honor for established acts and a golden opportunity for up-and-coming artists. Letterman’s personal interest in music often shone through, as he would sometimes engage in longer conversations with musical guests, a rarity in the format.
The Legacy of David Letterman
David Letterman retired from the “Late Show” in 2015, leaving behind a legacy that is hard to quantify. His influence extends beyond the show itself, impacting how we view television, comedy, and celebrity culture.
Letterman’s Post-“Late Show” Career
Even after his retirement, Letterman’s influence continues. His Netflix series, “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman,” showcases his interviewing skills in a more intimate format, proving that his ability to connect with both his guests and the audience remains unmatched.
The End of an Era
The final episode of “Late Show with David Letterman” was a momentous occasion, marked by an outpouring of tributes from fans, celebrities, and fellow late-night hosts. It was a testament to the show’s impact and Letterman’s place in television history.
Conclusion
“Late Show with David Letterman” was more than just a late-night talk show; it was a cultural institution that entertained, challenged, and influenced its audience. David Letterman’s legacy is one of innovation, humor, and a deep connection with viewers. As we look back on the show’s run, it’s clear that its impact will be felt for generations to come, not just in the world of television but in the broader cultural landscape.