David Letterman
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Early Career in Broadcasting and Comedy
Letterman began his career in broadcasting as a weather anchor for WNTS-AM, a local radio station in Indianapolis. In 1971, he became involved with ABC Sports' coverage of the Indianapolis 500. By 1975, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue comedy writing, performing initially at The Comedy Store—a key launching pad for many successful comedians.
Quick Facts
- Birth Date
- 12 Apr, 1947
- Age
- 73 yrs
- Citizenship
- United States of America
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- Birth Place
- Indianapolis
- Education
- Ball State University
- Gender
- Male
- Description
- American comedian and actor
- Net Worth 2021
- 400 million
People Mentioned in This Biography
His big break came in 1977 when he appeared on CBS's Starland Vocal Band Show. He gained traction through appearances on popular game shows such as The Gong Show, Hollywood Squares, and The $20,000 Pyramid. Letterman’s growing visibility eventually led to NBC offering him his own morning program, The David Letterman Show, in 1980. Though short-lived, it established the foundation for what would become Late Night with David Letterman in 1982—marking the beginning of a historic run in late-night television.
Personal Life
Letterman's personal life has seen several chapters. He married his first wife, Michelle Cook, in 1969. After eight years, they divorced in 1977. Over the years, he had several prominent relationships, including with actress Teri Garr and former staffer Stephanie Birkitt. In 2009, he married Regina Lasko, with whom he shares a son, Harry Joseph Letterman. The couple has largely maintained a private family life despite Letterman's public persona.
