The Late Show's Most Hated Guest Revealed

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Feuds with Kathy Griffin
   • 2.1. The off-color joke incident
   • 2.2. Light-hearted appearances
3. Feud with Sarah Palin
   • 3.1. Controversial joke and backlash
   • 3.2. Demand for a substantial apology
4. Tensions with Madonna
   • 4.1. Confrontational interview in 1994
   • 4.2. Light-hearted interactions
5. Contentious interview with Joaquin Phoenix
   • 5.1. Phoenix's peculiar behavior
   • 5.2. A performance art project revealed
6. Clashes with Bill O'Reilly
   • 6.1. Political and ideological differences
   • 6.2. Spirited debates and humor
7. Discomfort with Paris Hilton
   • 7.1. Pressed about jail time
   • 7.2. Criticisms and Letterman's response
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs

David Letterman's Memorable Feuds in Late-Night TV History

David Letterman, the legendary late-night talk Show host, has had his fair share of indelible moments with guests over the years. While he is known for his engaging and humorous interviews, there have been occasions when his interactions turned into feuds, disagreements, or tense encounters. In this article, we explore some of the notable guests and celebrities with whom David Letterman had Memorable disagreements during his illustrious career.

Feuds with Kathy Griffin

David Letterman and Kathy Griffin, both prominent figures in the world of comedy and entertainment, have had a somewhat contentious relationship. While they didn't always see eye to eye, their interactions were characterized by disagreements and occasional tension.

The off-color joke incident

One notable incident between David Letterman and Kathy Griffin occurred during Griffin's appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" in 2007. During the interview, Griffin made an off-color joke about then-Senator Hillary Clinton, which received mixed reactions from the audience. Letterman expressed his disapproval and asked her to explain the joke, leading to an uncomfortable exchange. Despite this incident, it's important to note that they have had other appearances together that were more light-hearted and congenial.

Feud with Sarah Palin

David Letterman's relationship with Sarah Palin, the former Governor of Alaska and Republican Vice Presidential candidate, was marked by a highly publicized and contentious feud. It all began with a controversial joke Letterman made about Palin's daughter during one of his monologues. The comment sparked outrage and backlash, leading to an on-air apology from Letterman. However, Palin and her supporters demanded a more substantial apology, accusing Letterman of contributing to a culture of degradation and sexism in the media.

Tensions with Madonna

David Letterman's relationship with Madonna, the iconic pop singer and actress, has had its moments of tension and disagreement. One of the most notable instances occurred during a 1994 appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman." The interview became confrontational, with Madonna challenging Letterman on various topics and even asking him to smell her underwear. Despite this confrontational interview, they had other appearances together that were more light-hearted.

Contentious interview with Joaquin Phoenix

One of the most memorable and contentious moments in late-night television history was David Letterman's interview with Joaquin Phoenix in 2009. Phoenix, known for his roles in acclaimed films, appeared disoriented and gave incoherent responses. The interview became increasingly tense and confusing, with Phoenix's peculiar behavior leaving Letterman taken aback. It was later revealed that Phoenix's appearance was part of a performance art project, which added further Context to the tension in the interview.

Clashes with Bill O'Reilly

David Letterman and Bill O'Reilly, two prominent figures in television and media, have had several notable clashes over the years. Their interactions often showcased their differing political and ideological views, leading to spirited debates and confrontations on air. Despite their differences, they also shared moments of humor and camaraderie during their appearances together.

Discomfort with Paris Hilton

David Letterman's interactions with Paris Hilton, the socialite and reality TV star, had moments of tension and discomfort. One memorable disagreement occurred during Hilton's appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" in 2007. Letterman pressed Hilton about her time in jail, leading to an awkward and strained interview. While some criticized Letterman's line of questioning, he maintained that he was simply asking the questions the audience wanted to hear.

In conclusion, David Letterman has had memorable feuds and tense moments with a variety of guests and celebrities throughout his career. These incidents have left a lasting impression on the landscape of late-night television, and despite the disagreements, they have also added unique and memorable elements to his shows.

Highlights

• David Letterman has had memorable feuds with guests like Kathy Griffin, Sarah Palin, Madonna, Joaquin Phoenix, Bill O'Reilly, and Paris Hilton.
• Feuds with Kathy Griffin and Madonna were marked by tension and moments of disagreement.
• The feud with Sarah Palin began with a controversial joke, leading to demands for a more substantial apology.
• Joaquin Phoenix's perplexing interview was part of a performance art project, creating tension and confusion.
• Clashes with Bill O'Reilly showcased their differing political and ideological views, but also moments of humor and camaraderie.
• The discomfort between Paris Hilton and David Letterman stemmed from questions about her time in jail and received criticisms.

FAQs

Q: Which feud was the most surprising?
A: Each feud had its own surprising elements, but Joaquin Phoenix's interview stood out due to the perplexing behavior, which was later revealed as part of a performance art project.

Q: Did David Letterman and Kathy Griffin ever have light-hearted interactions?
A: Despite their disagreements, David Letterman and Kathy Griffin had other appearances together that were more light-hearted and congenial.

Q: What was the controversy surrounding Sarah Palin and David Letterman?
A: The controversy began with a controversial joke made by David Letterman about Sarah Palin's daughter. This led to demands for a more substantial apology, with accusations of degradation and sexism in the media.

Q: Were David Letterman and Madonna always at odds?
A: While David Letterman and Madonna had moments of tension, they also shared appearances that were more light-hearted and banter-filled.

Q: How did David Letterman's interview with Paris Hilton unfold?
A: David Letterman pressed Paris Hilton about her time in jail, leading to an awkward and strained interview. Some criticized Letterman's line of questioning, while he defended his intention to ask what the audience wanted to hear.