David Letterman to Stephen Colbert: “You Make It Look Very Easy”

Stephen Colbert gets the honor of welcoming his predecessor David Letterman back to the Ed Sullivan Theater for the first time since hosting his final episode of the Late Show in 2015. Watch as Dave points out some key things that have changed since his time behind the desk, and stick around for more with the legendary David Letterman!
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Stephen Colbert brings his signature satire and comedy to THE LATE SHOW with STEPHEN COLBERT, the #1 show in late night, where he talks with an eclectic mix of guests about what is new and relevant in the worlds of politics, entertainment, business, music, technology and more. Featuring bandleader Louis Cato and “THE LATE SHOW band,” the Peabody Award-winning and Emmy Award-nominated show is broadcast from the historic Ed Sullivan Theater. Stephen Colbert took over as host, executive producer and writer of THE LATE SHOW on Sept. 8, 2015.

[@Adamroable]

You can see Dave's muscle memory kick in as he walks out. His interactions with the band and the audience made me think he was about to start in with a monologue. Such an icon!

[@EduardoSanchez-in9zj]

Same here

[@rma6070]

Ditto! he was basking in the applause and all those nightly shows came back to hom all at once! it was beautiful to watch!

[@1moreastronautttv]

The fact that he didn't feels like a wasted opportunity to me. 😉

[@kaymuldoon3575]

Lol that’s what I thought. 😂

[@braininjurydiy]

Yea absolutely. like he could have sat down and carried on as always. I expected to hear him say in the chair 'we'll be right back..."

[@KLKehoe]

So lucky to live in the time of David Letterman. His candid humor and shy gratitude is so human and comforting.

[@azalon3551]

Not sure Jennifer Aniston found it comforting

[@janvanveelen]

Sorry, never was my favorite.

[@Genious.]

You're referring to the scripted 'awkward' moment that happened on Letterman show?@@azalon3551

[@veggigoddess]

​@janvanveelen who cares?

[@paulpolpiboon9535]

100%!!

[@diananunez7]

I literally screamed and jumped out of my chair when Louis and the band started playing the iconic theme from Dave´s show!!❤

[@KiraLovesMichael]

SAME!! 🎉❤

[@oldmoviesinbwwithsubtitles3501]

Ditto

[@kingofmadprops]

I was waiting on that boom right towards the end like on the old show when Alan would say “Daaaaaaavid Letterman!”

[@metazock]

i bet you did not

[@joshpritt2146]

Especially the CBS one from 1999-2006-2015.

[@brianthomas9191]

Ok, I think I almost teared up when Dave came out to his original Late Night Theme song. So great to see him on the show. The Iron Man of Late Night!

[@joshpritt2146]

Actually it is the 1999, 2006 version of the Late Show that is the rearrangement of the original 1982 NBC Late Night show.

[@matthewmonkey9934]

Everyone needs to calm down. What david letterman did was not close to extraordinary. He was just a talk show host for a long time. This level of celeb worship is mental illness

[@lauracwhitney]

I did too!! My heart warmed up when I saw him enter the stage!!!

[@michaelrmurphy2734]

Written by Paul Schaffer. And first heard by me the first night of Late Night!

[@fatalmodelmadhatter]

I absolutely love how, no matter what, nearly all talk show hosts and a great deal of audiences always make sure Dave is not only welcome wherever he may roam, but also gets the respect and affection he's earned over 33 years being a nightly companion to viewers all around the world

[@lisamareeaccary5132]

Love him , from in Australia 🇦🇺

[@afreezaphorogiancossack2194]

LOL I remember when Letterman was a new show, my buddies in college watched him every night, everybody cool watched Letterman. He did all these Klibanesque non sequitur jokes and skits like Super Dave and stuff. We loved it, he was a bit of a breath of fresh air for the kids that grew up with their parents watching Johnny. And he's still funny and having a good time with Colbert too, it's great to see these guys up there laughing and having a good time still.

[@viviorko]

We were instructed before the show to play it up with our cheers.

[@tktru]

Meanwhile Leno receives the adoration of 5 people at an obscure lounge bar in Ahwatukee, Arizona

[@douglasdavis8395]

Seth even put on a tux when Dave was the guest.

[@RoySFord]

Wow, Paul's music, the way the door opened up and there was a little pause before he walked out... wow, so classic. Classic Letterman. Loved it. ❤

[@cloud__99]

So sweet to see how they welcomed him and how much he enjoyed it!

[@caiolinnertel8777]

Almost too much to deal with at once: David Letterman and Stephen Colbert!!!! So much “funny”, brilliance, and wit on one program. I’m 63 and have been watching both of these men since they appeared on the tele. Just wonderful.

[@MrRobby1]

Me too! I'll be 63 in a few months. I watched Dave since his daytime morning show and throughout the 80s at night. I moved to Europe in 1990 and didn't get a chance to see him again except for a couple of years in the mid-90s when The Late Show was broadcast on TV. And then the internet came in the early 2000s and I could get my fix again, especially when KZbin started showing clips.

[@Buffykc62]

Me too! Same age. Remember watching David's last show May 1992! I cried

[@Buffykc62]

Gees was it David or Johnny Carson in 1992??? 63 & my memory is kinda going. I hate turning old

[@MrRobby1]

@@Buffykc62 according to IMDb Letterman's Late Show began in August 30th 1993. You were watching Late Night with David Letterman in 1992.

[@Artysmarty150]

Yes, I adore them both and also Carson, who I grew up with. All three wonderful entertainers and I’ve loved watching every moment.

[@sitara68]

Watching this episode brought back so many nights of my formative years watching Letterman. After Carson, there was only Letterman. And as expected, Letterman hasn't skipped a beat. He is always as funny and warm and wonderful as he's always been.

[@stephenscanlon9763]

Letterman was better than Carson. Was more of an innovator than Carson ever could hope to be. Carson was the third host of an established show while Letterman created TWO iconic shows that are still on the air.

[@Genious.]

Plus his appearances on the Barbra Gaines Show are already legendary.@@stephenscanlon9763

[@marlenesheffield8777]

That standing ovation was well deserved for the guru!!! 👑💛❤️💯

[@BoudicasMom]

And he was actually blushing ❤

[@christopherbrown7560]

I wish Dave had done a top 10. It's like meanwhile. You don't realize how much you'd miss it until you missed it. Thanks for the memories Dave

[@lauracwhitney]

I miss Mr. Letterman so much!

[@colwilliamnoydb4134]

I watched Mr. Letterman when I was in High School, back when he was with NBC and had all the people from his show doing parts like Biff and Chris Elliot and others. All the bits and humor he brought was amazing. As teenagers we loved his show. And as I grew older his show evolved as well. Spent 2 weeks in New York City and went to 2 taping's and it was great. His dedication to US Military was superb. He hosted Fleet Week, and all POW's and those who were awarded the Medal Of Honor. He never backed down from an interview, never soft balled it like some will do. His running a drive threw at Taco Bell, throwing footballs with Peyton Manning, it was all great. He broke the ground and barrier of Late Night hosting and performances. After Johnny Carson left, the break through for Comedy acts and Music was on Letterman's show. But you know you are big when tv news stations and radios stations all over America play The Top 10 Countdown every day fro his previous nights show. It was a staple of life back then. Thank you Mr. Letterman for giving me joy, happiness, sorrow and reflection from your many years entertaining and informing us.

[@Buffykc62]

Well said! All what I feel

[@JazzyJeffRealTalk]

I grew up on David Letterman. He’s a legend. I loved this 🙏🏽

[@jeroen_vz]

Dave's iconic energy is so off the charts that the moment he walks out the set becomes his like he never left.

[@masondegaulle5731]

I was really hoping he was going to roll straight into "Alright folks, we have a great show for you tonight, thank you to Stay Human for that fantastic intro, great band, great band..."

[@lenkacfk7155]

But WHY the stupid beard?!? Why do men do that to themselves?🙈

[@clausmadsen6754]

Even looks good in the suit

[@beskimo2]

One of my favorite things about this one was, the original entrance music! Thank you!

[@MarkCerbo]

Goose Bumps when they started playing his music. DAMN. Dave a True Legend. #NationalTreasure Reminds me of Johnny Carson visiting Dave back in the day.

[@jasonjimerson7046]

Watching Letterman and Carson was my weeknights when I was ill or restless while I was growing up.

[@Sansri16761]

Such a great full circle moment seeing Dave as a guest on his show in the same building

[@braininjurydiy]

so nice to hear that music and see him come out with his big dorky smile, like no time had pased. Nice he came back on didn't realise it's been so long.

[@executivedecision6141]

His beard is too long, but yep that's Dave! 😄

[@louiebee6745]

Even at home I stood up cheered and applauded! DAVID LETTERMAN = ICON

[@swiley223]

He never changes. I watched him and Paul in the velcro jumpsuit days......it's been a hell of a ride!

[@salmanghani5972]

Dave is such a warm and calming energy. I trust that guy.

[@mhoroky]

You know he cheated on his wife, right? He admitted to it. Not 100% trustworthy! LOL

[@caroliesereed8658]

He’s a much better guest than host.

[@tkg3491]

@@caroliesereed8658 I would say he’s equally bad

[@KiraLovesMichael]

OMG!! I miss Dave SO much!!! He's still my main man!! Growing up with Late Night with David Letterman always kept me up way past my bedtime, and Mom loved him too, so we were always tired the next morning 😂 Totally worth it!!! Love you Sir Dave!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@kerryrobinson9947]

Dave is STILL getting it done. GENIUS SWITCH = ON! 💡

[@rikkiechambers4959]

The band nailed the theme !! And the audience response was so appropriate .. this man was my late night guy for so long .. it was only after both Carson and Dave quit that I looked at any other late night guys .. now I watch them all . None are Dave I miss him .. thanks for this Stephen it felt nice I saved it till right b4 bed just like when I was a teen lol the band playing the theme song made it just that much better .. deep happy sigh 😊 thanks to both of you for the good memories 😊💜

[@DedicatedSlaya]

Maaaaannn... I went back in Time!!! The way Dave walked out, I thought he was going to do a Monologue!!!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@DJ_NOOB]

Seeing Dave walk out those doors, hearing the music, the camera moving around......it's like he never left. Goose bumps.

[@twintriode]

Dave was the best. Started watching him in 1983. I think that was pretty early in his Late Night show. From Larry "Bud" Melman, Chris Elliot as "The man under the stairs", stupid pet/human tricks, the slap heard around the world, to Will Lee supporting The Pinheads on bass in Back to the Future what an excellent show, cast, characters, and time to be alive.

[@JonathanHudgins]

I remember Dave saying he didn't think he would ever return to The Ed Sullivan Theater because it upset him when CBS changed it all so quickly. Its surreal to see Dave back there though, coming out to that iconic theme. Goosebumps.

[@heidevanness2788]

It's Daaaaaavviiiiid Lettttteeeeeermaaan!!!!!!

[@karltonlimeback6183]

They should've had his announcer introducing him

[@hutch1197]

I can't believe this, but I actually teared up when he walked on to that stage.

[@thinkforyourself828]

He walked out like not a day has gone by. Love it.

[@David72191]

Actually cried seeing Dave on that stage.

[@doctorbeanis]

I watched the introduction half a dozen times - smiles and goosebumps each time! WELCOME BACK DAVE!!!

[@charlenemack7040]

I’ve been in love with David Letterman for well over 40 years. I’m 72 years old and I just love this man… Love him love him love him!😊❤

[@cleverusername9369]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, the best and classiest guests always acknowledge the band, and Mr Letterman did not disappoint

[@chipbutty1971]

It's a lovely moment, a lovely feeling to see Dave walk in to our screens again with his Late Show theme tune playing (nailed it btw by Louis' band - ace) to welcome him

[@GrainneCarney]

you just know that these two guys just that little mention, Dana got a little uplift a little light in the dark time for him and his family, warms the heart.

[@zom8680]

Its so nice of Stephen to comp a room for him as he rests up for his big night on December 24th

[@corinne_vintage]

What a legend. He's such a great interviewer and a great interview.

[@MrHeretrix]

I can only imagine the emotions going through Dave, standing on that stage being showered with so much love. It made ME feel good. That's what coming home looks like.

[@kowalski5599]

This is like when Johnny Carson visited Letterman on the Late Show set to deliver the top ten list. The crowd was rabid!

[@rishabhaniket1952]

But those days people (aside from the studio audience) did give a damn about late night but now hardly anyone does.

[@IgotWrites]

Wow. Actually teared up hearing his old theme song and seeing Dave. He was a staple of my upbringing. Glad to see he's doing well. Need more Dave!!

[@marya.8980]

What a splendor! The King David visiting Sir Stephen Colbert!

[@HimanyannoOkan]

❤❤❤ Dave!!

[@dmajoriu21]

I’ve been waiting for this moment for so long and it didn’t disappoint! I have such respect and admiration for these two gentlemen! Thanks for making this happen! Another reason to love StrikeForce 5! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@user-kv2tj4du8p]

Dave paved the way! he taught American culture a certain brand and level of humor and intelligence. there was a road-map of sorts-but Dave and Paul Shaffer were going in new directions. This was brave. and we are all the better for it. I love this!

[@MrRobby1]

As soon as Dave walked out on stage I had tears of happiness streaming down my face. 🤣 I just couldn't control myself.

[@NewMessage]

A remote piece tomorrow of the behind the scenes of his visit today would make my year.

[@RobertKeilOK]

That will probably be on the “Late Show Me More” later in the week

[@Rebel_AF]

Look at Dave bringing that HEAT in a suit ❤️🔥🔥😎 so nice to see him back at Ed Sullivan

[@andygonsalves2000]

David Letterman back in the Ed Sullivan Theater is a magical television moment!

[@colinwilliams553]

I said it once and I'll say it again for the gazillinth time....DAVID LETTERMAN is a national treasure and he will always and forever be my favorite late night talk show host and I miss him on late nights ❤❤

[@marlenemounce1]

Watch all the segments, I cried at the ending of the interview. Love David. ❤

[@aircholo1245]

Letterman is an icon!!

[@arturobanuelos4385]

Of shit 😂

[@Lptoomany2001]

Super wonderful show!! The National is one of my top 10 favorites. I'm honored that David Letterman agrees that they are great. Thank you! Thank you!

[@traceyfeely4217]

So happy to see Dave is still wearing his white socks with a suit😂

[@NewMessage]

I've been waiting forever for this. Good day. Good day.

[@rmleider]

release the unedited full interview please!

[@MortimerSnerdVideos]

Seeing David letterman back in the Ed Sullivan theater: Maaaaaaan damn. For those of you don’t know, maybe you do, the Johnny David and Stephen are talking about is Johnny Carson who was a good friend to David and who said that David letterman should’ve been his rightful successor instead of Jay Leno.

[@GLN14659]

So wonderful to see dave again after all these years.

[@CaliforniaBushman]

My dad started taping Late Night With David Letterman on the first show with Bill Murray in 1982 on our Brand new VCR in Yorktown in upper Westchester. He's 83. He still has the tapes 📼📼📼 🤗

[@aletheab8630]

I forgot how much I loved Davi’s Letterman!!!

[@user-rk1ie8lh4l]

David is and was so well respected because of his warm welcoming genial Midwest personality.

[@yesloow]

OMG, the delayed entrance, the Late Show music, the shenanigans (many of which Colbert has adopted)…miss Dave so much!

[@BRinMilwaukee]

This is priceless. So happy right now.

[@bablumenthal9703]

I was impressed to learn that Ray Ramano's first appearance was on Dave's show, and Dave liked it so well, his production company, World Wide Pants, is the reason we were able to enjoy Everybody Loves Raymond for 9 years. Ray didn't like the title of show, too much attention on him, so he called Dave to ask him not to give the show that title. The first thing Dave said was, "How did you get my number?" Classic.

[@janeltranmer2284]

That is the welcome he deserves. Actually, I thought it should have gone a little longer, but... Love you, Dave. Total respect and what a huge kindness on your part to keep in touch and share with your fans like this. And, yes, wouldn't it be nice if the audience got some? Big metaphor there, Dave, and a nice one.

[@ser9656]

That music! It was so thrilling to watch him walk out to that music.

[@michaelkottler]

So completely dope AF, Colbert having The Man Mr. Letterman on, and wow: He hasn't missed a beat. Thanks for the memories, Dave and props to Colbert and staff for continuing to maintain the high standards set by Letterman and crew. Again, 100% dope!

[@geospecies]

This might be my most favorite interview of all time. Huge fan of Dave and of course Stephen. This was excellent

[@charlenemack7040]

Santa Dave… Ho ho ho! 🎅🏻❤️💚❤️🎄

[@bookwriter23]

What a treat. I said to myself he’s not wearing those white tube socks lol what do ya know there they go ❤

[@rainerlovesjapan9468]

Always been a fan of David Letterman. Good to see him again🎉🎉

[@batgurrl]

David Letterman is both a living legend and National Treasure ❤️ His energy is like magic

[@michelleagleton2344]

David and Johnny were the King's!❤

[@christiansandstrom718]

That entrance made my eyes tears up 🥹

[@jgray5034]

It’d be great to have Dave back in any capacity… as a guest host, as host of with his own show again (now that Harry is away at school), cameo appearances, ETCETERA 🎉

[@samuelkondracki]

I can’t tell you how much I love that Dave’s first instinct was to walk out onto the monologue spot like he was the host, rather than moving straight to his guest chair. So freakin awesome, the Late Show will always be Dave’s.

[@stuartb3609]

Stephen barely had to say a word. Dave’s still got it. 👏👏👏

[@Aaliyahchannel2024]

Colbert had always been bad at interviews. Only knows how to talk about Trump

[@mikewhite4560]

As for J A Y?? 😅 He's got his C A R S....LOL

[@frezerh]

​@@Aaliyahchannel2024lmaoooo since when? Colbert is a brilliant interivewer...certainly the best on late-night tv

[@makasete30]

@@frezerhit’s a common criticism I’ve seen, it I don’t thinks bad.

[@brandilaynecrawford8117]

Love, love, love Dave Letterman !!! Watched him through highschool and college. I even bought wrestling shoes cause Dave wore them with his suits. I even use to want to marry him. He's the greatest !!! 💕

[@dragonfly4484]

This got me emotional, not going to lie. I miss the dude. Been wondering when this will happen

[@felicitousfeline9956]

Not sure I’ve ever seen Letterman in such a good mood and so gracious.

[@denniszenanywhere]

Me too.

[@mcillancadfish]

I've been an avid fan of David Letterman since the 80's in NBC, 90's - 00's in CBS, and now in Netflix in his specials. This was truly something amazing! Thank youbso much Stephen Colbert for making this special! Now I'm going to copy this comment and paste it on every part of this video 😅

[@scottmackey1353]

💯 % The greatest host of late night EVER !!

[@suzannefarrington4143]

I never loved Letterman in the old days, but his statesmanlike treatment here is almost tear-inducing.

[@odradekk]

The stamp of approval. Now it’s legit.

[@SNAPVegan]

LOVE LOVE LOVE DAVE! What a great Surprise!

[@Ivehadenuff]

I used to watch David Letterman’s monologue nightly, back when I could stay up late. Thank God for you tube!

[@ArtificialBanana]

I’m so glad he finally did this!

[@billlonee9470]

The Return of the King!

[@PH_1964]

I love David Letterman ❤❤❤

[@michaelbraun4896]

Was there for the taping with my wife. What a great time.

[@tomking2613]

The Love and the Honor to have such a legend. Good to see you too. Thanks David

[@FredLord-sp4ym]

The is terrific and is what Broadcast Late Night Television was all about. Thanks for sharing this marvelous moment.

[@JSYBen]

Dave has so much more energy now than he did in his last years at CBS. We've had some classic Dave back, it's really nice to see.

[@fiercingdragon]

What a standing ovation!

[@lynndvorak]

DAVID LETTERMAN!!😊 Welcome back.

[@beskimo2]

Probably my favorite episode of a long time!

[@sarahosman6470]

I’m not crying!!!! You’re crying 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹

[@maneeshahooja]

Mr. Letterman, you are awesome!