David Letterman's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 5, 2026

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of David Letterman.

David Letterman is an American television icon, renowned for his influential and lengthy career as a late-night talk show host. He helmed both "Late Night with David Letterman" on NBC and "Late Show with David Letterman" on CBS for a combined 33 years. In total, Letterman hosted an impressive 6,080 episodes, establishing him as the longest-serving late-night talk show host in American television history. His unique comedic style and innovative approach to the talk show format solidified his place as a major figure in entertainment.

Sections (6)

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

1981: Letterman receives first Emmy nomination

Since 1981, David Letterman has received 52 Emmy Award nominations for his work as a performer, producer, and writer, winning two Daytime Emmys and ten Primetime Emmys.

1996: Letterman ranked among TV's greatest stars

In 1996, David Letterman was ranked 45th on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time, recognizing his significant impact on television.

February 21, 2000: Return to Late Show after bypass surgery

On February 21, 2000, David Letterman returned to the Late Show after recovering from bypass surgery, bringing the doctors and nurses who participated in his surgery and recovery on stage.

2002: "The Late Show with David Letterman" ranked among the greatest TV shows

In 2002, "The Late Show with David Letterman" was ranked seventh on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time, solidifying its place in television history.

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2004: Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing won Indianapolis 500

In 2004, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing won the Indianapolis 500 with driver Buddy Rice.

September 7, 2007: David Letterman Communication and Media Building dedication

On September 7, 2007, David Letterman visited his alma mater, Ball State University, for the dedication of the David Letterman Communication and Media Building, a $21 million facility named in his honor. He delivered an emotional speech reflecting on his college struggles and his late father.

December 2007: Worldwide Pants negotiated contract with Writers Guild of America, East

In December 2007, Worldwide Pants received significant attention after it independently negotiated its own contract with the Writers Guild of America, East, thus allowing Letterman, Craig Ferguson, and their writers to return to work.

2011: Letterman receives Johnny Carson Award

In 2011, David Letterman was the first recipient of the Johnny Carson Award for Comedic Excellence at The Comedy Awards, honoring his significant contributions to comedy.

2012: Letterman receives Kennedy Center Honors

In 2012, David Letterman was a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors, recognized as one of television's most influential personalities for his wit and charm.

May 16, 2017: Letterman to receive Mark Twain Prize

On May 16, 2017, David Letterman was named the recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, awarded by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

October 22, 2017: Letterman receives Mark Twain Prize

On October 22, 2017, David Letterman officially received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor during a ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.