David Letterman, the legendary former host of 'The Late Show', has weighed in on the recent cancellation of the CBS late-night program, calling it a 'huge mistake' and a loss for American culture. In an exclusive interview with TODAY's Craig Melvin, Letterman shared his thoughts from the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a place close to his heart due to his involvement in the racing industry and his personal health journey.
Letterman, who hosted 'The Late Show' from its inception in 1993 until 2015, expressed his sadness over the cancellation. He reminisced about the golden age of late-night television, where iconic hosts like Johnny Carson provided a unique perspective and entertainment. According to Letterman, the absence of such a program could lead to a loss of a valuable cultural pillar.
'Kind of makes me sad,' he said. 'We always relied on the newspaper in the morning and Johnny Carson at night to give us a perspective, whether we agreed with it or not, but it was always funny. And without that, I think we're losing a valuable perspective. It's very important to the American culture.'
The cancellation of 'The Late Show' comes as a surprise, especially given the show's strong performance and the recent controversies surrounding CBS. Stephen Colbert, who took over the show in 2015, announced the cancellation in July 2025, citing financial reasons. However, Letterman believes there's more to it.
'I think it's too bad that Stephen is gone,' Letterman said. 'I think it's a huge mistake. As we all understand, you can take a man's show, but you can't take a man's voice. So that's the good news.'
The interview also touched on Letterman's personal health struggles, including his quintuple bypass surgery in 2000. He has since become an advocate for heart health, joining forces with Edwards Lifesciences for the 'Stay In the Race' campaign. This campaign aims to raise awareness about heart valve failure and the importance of early detection, especially among adults 65 and older.
'It could be a silent killer,' said Lanigan, who has also undergone triple bypass surgery. 'But if you go out and get your heart valves checked, and if you're OK, then you're having a great day. If you find out you have an issue, they can fix it.'
Letterman's passion for racing and his advocacy for heart health have made him a prominent figure in both industries. His involvement in the 'Stay In the Race' campaign not only showcases his dedication to raising awareness but also highlights the interconnectedness of his personal and professional life.
In conclusion, David Letterman's comments on the cancellation of 'The Late Show' offer a unique perspective on the impact of late-night television on American culture. His advocacy for heart health and his racing background add a layer of depth to his opinion, making it a compelling and thought-provoking statement.
