Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to David Letterman

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to David Letterman.

David Letterman is an influential American television host, comedian, writer, and producer known for his long tenure in late-night television. He hosted 'Late Night with David Letterman' on NBC starting in 1982, then moved to CBS with 'Late Show with David Letterman,' ending his run in 2015. Letterman surpassed Johnny Carson to become the longest-serving late-night talk show host in American television history, hosting a total of 6,080 episodes.

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

2005: Restraining order against Letterman

In 2005, a woman obtained a restraining order from a New Mexico judge against David Letterman, claiming he sent her coded messages via his television program, which caused her bankruptcy and emotional distress.

2008: Concerns over Letterman's affairs with subordinates

In 2008, questions arose regarding whether David Letterman's affairs with subordinates created an unfair working environment at CBS. It was pointed out that CBS's business conduct policies required supervisors to disclose any romantic or sexual relationships with direct or indirect subordinates to the Human Resources Department.

2008: Pregnancy controversy

In 2008, the pregnancy of Sarah Palin's 18-year-old daughter, Bristol, caused some controversy during the United States presidential election.

October 1, 2009: Letterman announces blackmail attempt

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

October 2, 2009: Joe Halderman indicted

On October 2, 2009, Joe Halderman pleaded not guilty to a charge of attempted grand larceny.

October 3, 2009: TMZ reports Letterman affair with intern

On October 3, 2009, TMZ reported that David Letterman had a year-long affair with Holly Hester, a former CBS employee, in the early 1990s when she was his intern and a student at New York University.

October 5, 2009: Letterman Apologizes to Wife and Staff on Air

On October 5, 2009, David Letterman publicly apologized to his wife and staff on his show for his affair.

2009: Letterman Jokes About Sarah Palin's Daughter

On June 8 and 9, 2009, David Letterman told two sexually themed jokes about a daughter of Sarah Palin on his TV show, including a joke that Palin's daughter had been "knocked up" by MLB player Alex Rodriguez.

March 2010: Joe Halderman sentenced

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

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, calling on American Muslims to kill him for joking about the death of Ilyas Kashmiri.