David Letterman

Definition

David Letterman is a renowned television host and comedian, best known for his late-night talk shows, including 'Late Night with David Letterman' and 'The Late Show with David Letterman.' His unique style combined humor, celebrity interviews, and innovative segments, significantly influencing the talk show format and setting a standard for future hosts in the industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. David Letterman began his television career in the 1970s and gained fame with his unique brand of humor and offbeat style on 'Late Night with David Letterman,' which premiered in 1982.
2. His influence is seen in how he transformed late-night talk shows by incorporating more irreverent humor and unconventional interview styles compared to previous hosts.
3. Letterman's signature segments included the 'Top Ten List,' which became iconic and has been emulated by many other shows since.
4. In 1993, Letterman made a high-profile move from NBC to CBS, where he launched 'The Late Show with David Letterman,' attracting a large audience and rivaling Jay Leno's 'The Tonight Show.'
5. After retiring from late-night hosting in 2015, he continued to engage audiences with his Netflix series 'My Next Guest Needs No Introduction,' showcasing his ability to adapt to new formats.

Review Questions

• How did David Letterman's approach to late-night television differentiate him from his predecessors?
  • David Letterman's approach was marked by a blend of irreverence, spontaneity, and humor that set him apart from traditional hosts. Unlike previous talk show hosts who followed a more conventional format, Letterman introduced unique segments such as the 'Top Ten List' and embraced a self-deprecating style. This innovative approach not only entertained viewers but also paved the way for future hosts to adopt a more relaxed and informal tone in their interviews.
• What were the implications of David Letterman's move from NBC to CBS for the late-night television landscape?
  • David Letterman's transition from NBC to CBS in 1993 had significant implications for late-night television as it intensified the competition among networks. His arrival at CBS allowed for a fresh alternative to Jay Leno's 'The Tonight Show,' leading to a rivalry that captivated audiences. This shift also prompted other networks to reassess their programming strategies and invest in developing their own late-night hosts who could bring something new to the table.
• Evaluate David Letterman's legacy in the context of modern talk shows and discuss how his innovations continue to influence hosts today.
  • David Letterman's legacy is evident in the way modern talk shows have evolved, as many hosts today borrow elements from his style. His emphasis on comedy integrated with celebrity interviews has become a staple in the genre, influencing figures like Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert. Furthermore, his willingness to tackle controversial subjects and engage in more personal storytelling has inspired contemporary hosts to connect with audiences on deeper levels. As a result, Letterman's impact on late-night television endures through these lasting stylistic changes.

Related terms

Late-Night Television: A genre of television programming that features a host interviewing guests, often including comedy skits, musical performances, and audience interaction, typically airing after the evening news.

Top Ten List: A comedic segment popularized by Letterman where he lists the top ten items on a given topic, often featuring humorous commentary and clever writing.

NBC and CBS: The two major networks where Letterman hosted his shows; NBC for 'Late Night' and CBS for 'The Late Show,' showcasing his transition and impact across different broadcasting platforms.