I just finished watching David Letterman's final show. It was a great way to wrap up a stellar career and show. It dawned on me. The Late Show, well Letterman, is a link I had to my father. My dad passed away in 1987.
I can't say I have specific memories watching Letterman with my father, but I'm sure we did. Like most people my age, our parents watched The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. My dad even sent a letter to the Tonight show trying to get me on the show. I did impersonations when I was young & cute. I didn't get on the show, but I always thought it was cool that my dad felt I had "that" kind of talent.
I don't know who the next late night star will be, but it will never be the same. Letterman began before cable TV diluted the talent pool. And now with internet "shows" the talent has been thinned out so much its almost a vapor.
The new wave of late night consists of capable folk. Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Conan O'Brian and Jon Stewart for a little while longer and a promising Steven Colbert. All are enjoyable, but nothing to fill your belly with.
My son, like many young kids, watches YouTube channels. He'll show me clips and wonder why I'm not laughing. I don't laugh because its not funny. Most of these channels just shout obscenities repeatedly. I'm not a prude, trust me, I'm a fan of the late Sam Kinison.
Also, a fan of Jerry Seinfeld, the opposite style of Sam Kinison
So I say farewell to David Letterman. Thank you for being that great bridge to a day gone bye.
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