Jay Leno
David Letterman and Jay Leno’s late night TV rivalry was an iconic battle of the 90s. The hosts’ ratings clash lasted years, and drew massive audiences. In this slideshow, we look back at the timeline of the late night legends’ rivalry.
Letterman's Beginnings
Letterman’s Beginnings: Letterman originally began his comedy career by performing at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. He also gained prominence through his writing for comedians like Jimmie Walker.
Leno's Start
Leno’s Start: Jay Leno first appeared on “The Tonight Show” on March 2, 1977, performing a comedy routine.
Carson's Favor:
Carson’s Favor: Letterman was a favorite of Johnny Carson, coming on as a regular guest and guest host on “The Tonight Show.”
The David Letterman Show
The David Letterman Show: In 1980, Letterman was given a morning show on NBC, which went on to win two Emmy Awards. The show was later canceled due to lackluster ratings.
Late Night with David Letterman
Late Night with David Letterman: Letterman launched “Late Night with David Letterman” in 1982, which aired just after “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and quickly gained a strong following.
Leno's Climb
Leno’s Climb: Jay Leno became a regular substitute host for Johnny Carson in 1986. Leno consistently brought strong ratings, gaining him favor with NBC.
Serious Competition
Serious Competition: Initially, Letterman’s “The Late Show” gained higher ratings than Leno’s. Fans largely remained loyal to either comedian.
Pulling ahead
Pulling ahead: Leno surpassed Letterman in ratings following his massively popular 1995 interview with Hugh Grant.
Contract Extensions
Contract Extensions: Leno went on to extend his contract with NBC in 2004, which would last until 2009.
Conan O'Brien
Conan O’Brien ultimately succeeded him in 2009.
The Strike
The Strike: During the 2007–08 Writers Guild of America strike, Leno was accused of violating guidelines by writing some of his own monologues.
Succession by Fallon
Succession by Fallon: Leno’s final episode as host of “The Tonight Show” aired on February 6, 2014, with Jimmy Fallon succeeding him.
Letterman's Legacy
Letterman’s Legacy: Letterman announced his retirement from the “Late Show” in 2014, with Stephen Colbert succeeding him. His final episode aired in May of 2015.
Landing on Top
Landing on Top: Letterman successfully surpassed Johnny Carson as the longest-serving late-night talk show host in U.S. history.
Letterman's Recognition
Letterman’s Recognition: Letterman’s shows received critical acclaim, claiming 67 Emmy nominations and 12 wins over the course of 20 years.