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Last updated on: January 30, 2025
David Letterman is that guy who turned late-night television into something funny, wacky, and crazy for more than three decades. Born on the 12th of April 1947 in Indianapolis, Indiana, he began his career as a weatherman and then discovered his true passion in comedy. If you’ve ever viewed an evening show that featured quirky segments, hilarious but awkward interviews or sarcastic humor the chances are that it was influenced by Letterman.
His breakthrough was made in 1982 when he hosted The Late Night featuring David Letterman on NBC in which he introduced a new, unpretentious style to TV. Later, he joined CBS for the Late Show. Late Show, wrapping his legendary career in 2015 following the record-breaking 6,080th episode. This is higher than Johnny Carson, his own late-night idol!
What was it that made Letterman unique? He wasn’t just a host, he engaged them in a game. He was either throwing watermelons off the roof of a building, chatting with Bill Murray, or giving celebrities the most embarrassing times of their careers His humor was always funny, yet never sarcastic.
In addition to hosting the show, Letterman built the Worldwide Pants Production company behind popular shows such as Everybody Loves Raymond. He’s been awarded 10 Emmys and was awarded the highly coveted Kennedy Center Honors in 2012. After his retirement, the actor didn’t go off in a blaze of glory. He returned by releasing The Next Guest Doesn’t Need An Introduction on Netflix to prove he has it.
As of January 2025, David Letterman is 77 years and 9 months old, his estimated net worth is $450 million and he stands at a height of 6 feet and 2 inches (188 cm or 1.88 m) tall.
Bio / Wiki
Full Name
David Michael Letterman
Nickname
Earl Hofert, Dave, The Big Man
Profession
TV host, comedian, writer, and producer.
Career
Debut
Film
Cabin Boy (1994)
TV show
The Gong Show (1976)
Best Known for
David Letterman is best known for revolutionizing late-night television with his unique humor and iconic segments like “Top Ten Lists” and “Stupid Pet Tricks”.
Genres
Observational comedy, satire, deadpan, self-deprecation.
Awards
Personal Profile and Background Details
Date of Birth
12 April 1947
Age
As of today, David is 77 years, 9 months, and 18 days old.
Zodiac sign
Aries
Signature
Nationality
American
Birth Place
Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.
Residence
Westchester County
School / College / University
Broad Ripple High School
Ball State University in Muncie
David Letterman’s career began with Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He studied television and radio before graduating in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. However, his real training came from the radio station of the university in which he developed his humorous humor and passion for broadcasting.
He wasn’t the straight-A and textbook-loving type of student. He even joked about not getting through college. However, what he didn’t have in terms of grades was compensated for by his personality and creative thinking.
Religion
David Letterman grew up in a Presbyterian family and his mother was a member of the community church located in Indianapolis. Although faith was a major element of his life he’s more reserved about it today. He’s an atheist, but he’s not open about his religious beliefs.
However, he’s acknowledged his gratitude to God during difficult times and has always respected the different views of others.
Race / Ethnicity
- Father’s Side: English, Scots-Irish/Northern Irish, and German ancestry.
- Mother’s Side: Primarily of German descent.
Food Habits
David Letterman’s food habits have changed a lot over the years, especially after his heart surgery in 2000. With the help of his doctor, he switched to a healthier diet, focusing on portion control and better nutrition.
One of his quirky favorites? Scrambled eggs with yellow mustard—because apparently, it makes them taste brighter (who knew?). He also loves thinly sliced turkey with Russian dressing, proving he still has a soft spot for comfort food.
As for alcohol, he quit drinking in 1981, calling himself a “horrible alcoholic” back in the day. Now, he sticks to a healthier lifestyle, but his love for good food never faded!
Hobbies
He’s a massive motorsports enthusiast and is even the co-owner of the IndyCar team ( Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing). Giving back to the community is another passion. He set up an endowment account for Ball State University to help students pursue their goals.
When he’s away from the spotlight, you can see him out in the woods, hiking or fishing, taking in some peaceful time in nature.
While he used to be a smoker, however, he has gotten rid of it. Even after his retirement Letterman remains as fascinating as always!
Tattoo
Does not have any known tattoos.
Physical Attributes and Measurements
Height
- In feet: 6′ 2″
- In Centimeters: 188 cm
- In meters: 1.88 m
Weight
- In kilograms: 78 kg
- In Pounds: 172 lbs
Body Measurements
- Chest Size: 42 inches
- Biceps Size: 14 inches
- Waist Size: 34 inches
Shoe size
11 (US)
Eye color
Blue
Hair Color
Dark Brown (earlier)
Grey (now)
Family
Wife
Michelle Cook (1968–1977)
Regina Lasko (2009–present)
Father
Harry Joseph Letterman (Florist)
Mother
Dorothy Marie Letterman Mengering (née Hofert) (Church Secretary at the Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis)
Siblings
Janice Letterman (Older Sister)
Gretchen Letterman (Younger Sister) (Former Journalist and Editor of the St. Petersburg Times Lifestyles Section)
Gretchen Letterman, David’s younger sister is a former journalist, editor, and a proud family woman. She spent over 30 years at the Tampa Bay Times, making a name for herself in the media world.
Family has always been a big part of her life. She’s married to Billi Jan, a Navy officer, and has two kids—Liam, an Army officer, and Ace, a photographer. Both are happily married. She’s also known for speaking up on social issues, even penning an open letter to Florida’s governor about her child’s experiences.
Like her famous brother, Gretchen has a sharp wit and a deep love for storytelling. She’s proud of their mom, Dorothy Mengering, who became a fan favorite on David’s shows. Even though she’s not in the spotlight like her brother, Gretchen’s life is full of meaningful work, strong family values, and a passion for making a difference.
Children
Harry Joseph Letterman (son)
Others
Earl Jacob Hofert Jr. (Maternal Uncle)
Hazel Hofert (Maternal Aunt)
Hans Mengering (Stepfather)
Earl Jacob Hofert (Maternal Grandfather)
Lena M. (née Strietelmeier) (Maternal Grandmother)
Liam Letterman Shelton (Nephew) (Gretchen’s Son)
Relationship & More
Marital Status
Married to Regina Lasko
Marriage Date
2 July 1968 (Michelle Cook)
19 march 2009 (Regina Lasko)
Affairs or dating history
Michelle Cook (1968—1977)
Merrill Markoe (1978—1988)
Regina Lasko (1986—Present)
Holly Hester
Stephanie Birkitt – Rumored
Terri Garr – Rumored
Bonnie Hunt (2008) – Rumored
Favorite Things
Favorite film
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
Favorite song
I’ll Be Around (Whenever You Want Me) by The Spinners, Everlong by Foo Fighters
Favorite Band
Foo Fighters
Favorite Musician
Warren Zevon
Net Worth 2025
$450 million
As of January 2025, it’s estimated that David Letterman has a net worth of about $450 million. Let’s look at the different ways he’s made his wealth.
1. Late-Night Television Hosting:
Letterman’s most significant financial success stems from his long-running time as a late-night television host. The show began his career with Late Night with David Letterman on NBC in 1982. The show established the scene for the future of his show, it didn’t earn the massive income he would later earn. The biggest financial gain resulted from his switch to CBS in 1993, where he was to present The Late Show with David Letterman. At the height in his professional career, the host was making a income of $40 million.
2. Production Company – Worldwide Pants Incorporated:
in 1991 Letterman established Worldwide Pants the company he owns. The company not only produced his shows, but also other successful shows like Everybody Loves Raymond. In Worldwide Pants, Letterman didn’t only earn money from hosting, however, he also earned from credits for production and distribution contracts which significantly boosted the income of his show.
3. Netflix Series – My Next Guest Needs No Introduction:
After quitting traditional late-night television in, Letterman returned with a new style on Netflix. The show entitled My Next Guest Doesn’t Need an Introduction was launched in the year 2018. Although the exact numbers aren’t yet made public, it is known that streaming platforms such as Netflix provide substantial compensation to stars with a high profile, which adds to his net worth.
4. Real Estate Investments:
Letterman has made wise investments in real estate over the past few years. The portfolio of his is comprised of a 108 acre estate located in Westchester County, New York as well as a 2,700-acre ranch in Choteau, Montana, a home on Martha’s Vineyard, and a home located in St. Barth’s. These properties are not just used as private retreats, but also serve as significant investments in the financial market.
5. Co-Ownership of Rahal Letterman Racing:
Beyond the realms of television and real estate, Letterman expanded his interests to the world of automobiles. He was a co-owner in Rahal Letterman Racing, an IndyCar racing team. The venture demonstrates his love for racing and provides a new source of income for him.
6. Syndication and Licensing Deals:
After stepping away from television nightly, Letterman continues to earn from licensing and syndication of his vast collection of shows. In the when he was a star, he could make $50 million per year in fees for licensing and syndication however that figure has slowed down in the past few years.
Car collection
1. Austin-Healey Bugeye Sprite
2. Chevrolet C20 Cheyenne
3. MGA Twin Cam 1588CC
4. Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
5. Austin-Healey 3000 MK1
6. Ferrari 328 GTS
7. Austin-Healy 100-4 BN2
8. Jaguar XK 140
9. Porsche 356C
10. Porsche 356 Cabriolet
11. Ferrari 512 BBi
12. Ferrari Dino 246 GTS
13. Ferrari 250 GTE
14. Porsche 356 1500 GS Carrera
15. Ferrari 250 GT Lusso
16. Ferrari 288 GTO
House
North Salem Mansion
A house in Saypo, MT
