Quick Wiki
- Full Name David Michael Letterman
- Birth Date Apr 12, 1947
- Age 77 Years, 11 Months
- Birthplace Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Occupation Television host, comedian, writer and producer
- Parents Dorothy Mengering, Harry Joe Letterman
- Mother Dorothy Mengering
- Father Harry Joe Letterman
David Letterman | Biography
David Letterman, born on April 12, 1947, in Indianapolis, is a legendary television host known for his unique style and wit. He gained fame through his shows, notably Late Night and Late Show, and has a significant impact on the entertainment industry.
Who is David Letterman?
David Letterman, born on April 12, 1947, in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a legendary American television personality and talk show host renowned for his distinctive style of humor and witty satire. Growing up as the son of a florist and a church secretary, he developed a penchant for comedy early on. After completing his degree in radio and television from Ball State University, Letterman began his career in radio and television in Indianapolis, eventually moving to Los Angeles to write for popular sitcoms. His big break arrived when he became a guest host on "The Tonight Show," marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in late-night television.
In 1982, Letterman launched "Late Night with David Letterman" on NBC, which quickly gained a cult following among viewers for its unique mix of comedic sketches, celebrity interviews, and interactive segments like "Stupid Pet Tricks." After a high-profile rivalry with Jay Leno for the hosting seat of "The Tonight Show," Letterman shifted to CBS in 1993, where he hosted "Late Show with David Letterman" for over two decades. Throughout his career, Letterman became known for his innovative approach to late-night television, which influenced a generation of comedians and talk show hosts. He temporarily stepped away from the spotlight before returning with "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction" on Netflix in 2018, further solidifying his status as an entertainment icon.
Early Life and Education
David Letterman was born on April 12, 1947, in Indianapolis, Indiana, into a family that included his father, Harry Joseph Letterman, a florist, and his mother, Dorothy, a church secretary. Growing up in a close-knit family with two sisters, Janice and Gretchen, Letterman developed a unique sense of humor from an early age. His upbringing in the Midwest laid the foundation for the brash and often self-deprecating style that would become his trademark in the world of television.
Letterman pursued his higher education at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, where he majored in radio and television, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1969. During his college years, he honed his skills in broadcasting and developed his comedic voice, which would serve him well in his future career. Before rising to national fame, Letterman worked in various roles including radio talk-show host, children's show host, and television weatherman, where his humorous take on the news began to emerge and capture the attention of viewers.
Career Breakthrough with The Tonight Show
David Letterman's career breakthrough came with his appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, where he caught the attention of audiences and industry insiders alike. Initially focused on comedy and writing, his big break materialized when he began guest hosting for Carson in 1978. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his unique humor, memorable wit, and personal style, which resonated particularly well with a youthful demographic. His tenure on The Tonight Show not only solidified his reputation as a talented comedian but also paved the way for his own shows in the evolving late-night landscape of American television.
In 1982, David Letterman launched Late Night with David Letterman on NBC, which became an instant hit due to its unconventional format and innovative sketches. The show featured iconic segments such as Stupid Pet Tricks and The Top Ten List, exemplifying Letterman's signature blend of absurdity and satire. With his eclectic mix of celebrity interviews and comedic stunts, he established a loyal fan base, overcoming initial doubts surrounding the departure from traditional talk show formats. This success cemented Letterman's status as a pioneer in late-night television, influencing countless comedians and talk show hosts in the years that followed.
Success with Late Night and Late Show
David Letterman's rise to prominence in the world of late-night television began with his groundbreaking program, "Late Night with David Letterman", which aired on NBC from 1982 until 1993. The show became a cultural phenomenon, largely due to Letterman's unconventional style, which featured quirky humor, innovative segments like "Stupid Pet Tricks," and the beloved "Top Ten List." His ability to mix celebrity interviews with absurd sketches attracted a loyal, youthful audience and set a new standard for late-night television, influencing a generation of comedians and talk show hosts who followed in his footsteps.
In 1993, after a long-standing rivalry with Jay Leno over the Tonight Show, Letterman transitioned to CBS to host "Late Show with David Letterman. This move not only solidified his status as a late-night icon but also showcased his resilience in the face of corporate decisions that often left him frustrated. At CBS, Letterman maintained his signature blend of humor and honesty while continuing to innovate, introducing new segments and maintaining a focus on comedic interviews. The *Late Show* captured the attention of millions, boasting notable guests and earning numerous awards throughout its impressive run.
Personal Life: Married Life and Children
David Letterman has maintained a relatively private personal life, shielding details from the media throughout his career. He was initially married to Michele Cook from 1969 to 1977. After their separation, he was romantically linked to comedienne and writer Merrill Markoe. In the mid-1980s, Letterman began a long-term relationship with Regina Lasko, who has played a significant role in his life since then. The couple's bond was solidified when they welcomed their son, Harry Joseph Letterman, named after David's father, in 2003.
On March 19, 2009, Letterman and Lasko exchanged vows in a discreet courthouse ceremony in Choteau, Montana, with Letterman announcing their marriage during a taping of his show shortly after. Their relationship faced challenges, particularly after a cheating scandal in 2009 when Letterman disclosed an extortion attempt linked to his infidelity on-air. Despite this turmoil, he publicly apologized to Lasko for the distress he caused, and the couple managed to reconcile, moving forward together with their son on a sprawling 108-acre estate in North Salem, New York.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Wealth
David Letterman, one of the most recognizable faces in late-night television, has amassed an impressive net worth throughout his illustrious career. As of 2023, his estimated net worth exceeds $400 million, a reflection of his decades-long tenure as a television host and comedic juggernaut. Letterman's financial prowess can be attributed not only to his iconic shows, including "Late Night" and "Late Show," but also to his successful production company, Worldwide Pants, which generated revenue through hit series like "Everybody Loves Raymond." These ventures have solidified Letterman's status as one of the wealthiest entertainers in Hollywood.
In addition to his television endeavors, Letterman earned a substantial income from syndication deals and sponsorships, further contributing to his wealth. At the peak of his career, his annual salary was estimated at $40 million, placing him among the top earners in the entertainment industry. Even after retiring from "Late Show," Letterman returned to television with "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction," a Netflix series that rejuvenated his brand and showcased his enduring appeal. His ability to attract high-profile guests and maintain a loyal audience ensures that his financial success is likely to continue for years to come.
FAQs
What was David Letterman's first major television gig?
David Letterman's first major television gig was as a guest host on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in 1978. Carson became a mentor to Letterman during this time, and his appearances helped pave the way for Letterman's later success in late-night television.
What is "Late Night with David Letterman" known for?
"Late Night with David Letterman" is known for its quirky humor and innovative segments, such as Stupid Pet Tricks and The Top Ten List. The show established Letterman’s unique comedic style, mixing celebrity interviews with absurd comedy and unconventional stunts.
Why did David Letterman move to CBS?
David Letterman moved to CBS in 1993 after NBC chose Jay Leno as his replacement for The Tonight Show. Letterman had been vying for the role and felt overshadowed, leading him to seek out opportunities at CBS, where he hosted "Late Show with David Letterman" for over two decades.
What notable health event impacted Letterman's career?
In January 2000, David Letterman underwent emergency quintuple heart bypass surgery, which drew significant media attention. He returned to his show a month later, opening with humor about his health scare, demonstrating his resilience and ability to connect with his audience.
What is "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction"?
"My Next Guest Needs No Introduction" is a talk show hosted by David Letterman on Netflix, which premiered in January 2018. The series features in-depth interviews with notable guests and highlights Letterman's evolved approach to conversation and storytelling.
How did Letterman's personal life influence his public image?
David Letterman’s personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife Regina Lasko and involvement in a high-profile infidelity scandal, has shaped his public persona. He openly discussed these matters on his show, enhancing his authenticity and relatability with viewers.
