David Letterman isn’t just a talk show host—he’s a late-night legend. With his signature dry humor, sharp interviews, and iconic Top Ten lists, Letterman helped shape the modern talk show as we know it. After more than three decades behind the desk—first on Late Night with David Letterman at NBC and then The Late Show on CBS—he retired in 2015, but he hasn’t stepped out of the spotlight entirely. From growing a now-famous beard to launching his Netflix series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, Letterman continues to evolve while staying true to his offbeat charm.
Find out more about his career and his net worth below.
David Letterman’s Career
Letterman started out as a local weatherman and stand-up comedian in Indiana before becoming a household name as a late-night pioneer. In 1982, he launched Late Night with David Letterman on NBC, winning over fans with his offbeat humor, iconic Top Ten lists, and unpredictable interviews.
In 1993, Letterman made a high-profile move to CBS with The Late Show with David Letterman, where he continued to dominate late-night television for over 20 years. Across more than 6,000 episodes, he earned multiple Emmy Awards and cemented his status as one of TV’s greatest hosts.
After retiring from late-night in 2015, Letterman stayed off the couch—but not off our screens. In 2018, he returned with My Next Guest Needs No Introduction on Netflix, exploring global issues and entertainment with in-depth interviews. In June 2025, Netflix announced it had renewed the show through at least Seasons 6 and 7, with Season 6 expected to drop later this year, and Season 7 to follow in 2026.
What Was David Letterman’s Salary on Late Night TV?
When Letterman left Late Night for The Late Show in 1993, he secured a three-year contract with CBS paying $14 million per year—nearly doubling his NBC salary. At his peak, including syndication and licensing deals, Letterman could take home up to $50 million annually, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
What Is David Letterman’s Net Worth?
Letterman has an estimated net worth of $300 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Is David Letterman Married?
Yes. Letterman is married to Regina Lasko, a longtime television production professional. The couple met in the mid-1980s and tied the knot in 2009 at a courthouse in Montana.
Does David Letterman Have Kids?
Yes. David and Regina have one son, Harry Joseph Letterman, who was born on November 3, 2003.
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