Late night talk show host David Letterman is as the king of late night for his humor and impeccable timing. He has been hosting show that bears his name since 1993 after was passed over for Johnny Carson's replacement following 1992 season. Many observers felt Letterman was the choice to replace Carson when the latter retired. " Night with David Letterman" had the choice time immediately following Carson, and both were under contract the National Broadcasting Company (NBC).

"The Late Show David Letterman" debuted on August 30,1993. Letterman took fan base with him to CBS for the part, and the battle lines had been drawn. 's new show was not an exact duplicate of show on NBC. CBS executives did not want to import his old show, opting to create new image for Letterman. Letterman persisted and his took root, and found its audience. Letterman has surpassed Carson's record for longevity in 2013. Letterman now hosted a late night show for more 31 years.

Letterman's early life was influenced by father, who was also a comic. He was in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 12, 1947. His foray into the entertainment industry came while a student at Ball State University, where he served a radio broadcaster for the student-run station. He to Los Angeles in 1975 at the behest his former wife. Once in L.A., Letterman began stand-up comedy, at the world famous Comedy Club, his career was launched.