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Late Show with David Letterman
Late Show with David Letterman is an American late-night talk show hosted by David Letterman on CBS. The show debuted on August 30, 1993, and is produced by Letterman's production company, Worldwide Pants Incorporated and CBS Television Studios. The show's music director and band-leader of the house band, the CBS Orchestra, is Paul Shaffer. The head writer is Matt Roberts and the announcer is Alan Kalter. Of the major U.S. late-night programs, Late Show ranks second in cumulative average viewers over time and third in number of episodes over time. The show leads other late night shows in ad revenue with $271 million in 2009. In most U.S. markets the show airs at 11:35 p.m. Eastern/Pacific time, but is recorded Monday through Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., and Thursdays at 3:30 p.m and 6:00 p.m. The second Thursday episode usually airs on Friday of that week. In 2002, Late Show with David Letterman was ranked No. 7 on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time. CBS has a contract with Worldwide Pants to continue the show through 2014; by then, Letterman will surpass Johnny Carson as the longest tenured late-night talk show host.
CBS Entertainment Productions
"Late Show with David Letterman," the iconic late-night talk show that aired from 1993 to 2015, was more than just a platform for celebrity interviews and musical performances. It was a meticulously crafted experience, a symphony of humor, absurdity, and genuine connection hosted by the late-night maestro himself, David Letterman.
The show's format, while seemingly simple, was a masterclass in comedic timing and audience engagement. Letterman's trademark ironic delivery, coupled with his ability to both disarm and shock guests, created an unpredictable yet comfortable atmosphere.
The show was structured around a series of recurring segments, each a distinct flavor in the comedic cocktail.
* Top Ten List: A self-aware poke at late-night tropes, Letterman’s Top Ten List always offered a fresh take on current events, pop culture, or mundane topics, delivered with signature deadpan humor. Whether it was "Top Ten Reasons to Be Excited About Retirement" or "Top Ten Things You Should Never Say to a Roomba," the list was a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. * Interviews: Letterman's interviewing style was legendary, marked by his relentless, sometimes unsettling curiosity and his willingness to push boundaries. He didn't shy away from tough questions or personal anecdotes, often leaving guests flustered but also revealing surprising insights. * "Stupid Pet Tricks": A segment showcasing the absurdity of life, this section invited audience members to reveal their pets’ bizarre talents, often resulting in hilarious, and sometimes slightly unsettling, moments.
Alongside these recurring segments, "Late Show with David Letterman" boasted a stellar band, Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra, who seamlessly shifted between suave jazz, quirky compositions, and comedic interludes, adding another layer of musical brilliance to the already vibrant show.
Letterman, throughout his reign, proved he was more than just a funnyman. His wry commentary on politics, social issues, and the human condition offered a unique perspective, blending cynicism with genuine empathy.
While "Late Show" didn't delve into serialized storytelling, its legacy lies in the cumulative effect of its myriad moments: the iconic Top Ten Lists, the unforgettable interviews, and the sheer audacity of its comedic vision. These aren't simply standalone sketches or segments; they weave together to create a tapestry of late-night history, a testament to the power of smart humor, quick wit, and a genuine connection with the audience.
