Challenges Faced by David Letterman: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and David Letterman faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

David Letterman is a renowned American television host, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for his influential late-night talk shows. He holds the record for the longest-serving late-night talk show host in American television history, having hosted a combined 6,080 episodes of 'Late Night with David Letterman' on NBC and 'Late Show with David Letterman' on CBS. His career spanned 33 years, from 1982 to 2015, solidifying his status as a major figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1981: Letterman Stops Drinking Alcohol

In 1981, at the age of 34, David Letterman stopped drinking alcohol, stating he had been a "horrible alcoholic" who was drunk 80% of the time until that point.

May 1988: Letterman Stalked by Margaret Mary Ray

Beginning in May 1988, David Letterman was stalked by Margaret Mary Ray, who stole his Porsche, camped on his tennis court, and broke into his house. This stalking drew national attention.

October 1998: Margaret Mary Ray's Death

In October 1998, Margaret Mary Ray, David Letterman's stalker, died by suicide at age 46. Letterman expressed compassion for her, calling it "a sad ending to a confused life."

January 14, 2000: Emergency Quintuple Bypass Surgery

On January 14, 2000, a routine checkup revealed that an artery in David Letterman's heart was severely obstructed. He was rushed to New York Presbyterian Hospital for emergency quintuple bypass surgery.

2005: Restraining Order Filed Against Letterman

In 2005, a woman obtained a restraining order against David Letterman in New Mexico, claiming he sent coded messages through his television program, causing her bankruptcy and emotional distress. The case was described as "patently frivolous".

2005: Kidnapping Plot Against Letterman's Son

In 2005, police discovered a plot to kidnap David Letterman's son and demand a $5 million ransom, leading to charges against Kelly Frank, a house painter who had worked for Letterman.

2007: Late Show Off Air Due to Writers Guild Strike

In 2007, Late Show went off air for eight weeks because of the Writers Guild of America strike.

October 1, 2009: Announcement of Blackmail Attempt

On October 1, 2009, David Letterman announced on his show that he had been the victim of a blackmail attempt by someone threatening to reveal his sexual relationships with female employees.

October 2, 2009: Indictment of Joe Halderman

On October 2, 2009, Joe Halderman was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury following testimony from David Letterman, after being arrested for attempting to deposit a check in the blackmail case.

March 2010: Sentencing of Joe Halderman

In March 2010, Joe Halderman pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months in prison, followed by probation and community service, for attempting to blackmail David Letterman.

August 17, 2011: Death threat against Letterman

On August 17, 2011, an Islamist militant posted a death threat against David Letterman on a website frequented by Al-Qaeda supporters, urging American Muslims to kill him for joking about the death of Ilyas Kashmiri.