David Letterman Makes Surprise Return to 'The Tonight Show' After Decades

The late-night legend joined Jimmy Fallon and longtime collaborator Paul Shaffer, marking his first appearance on the show since Johnny Carson's era.

David Letterman appeared on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' on February 10, 2025, interrupting Fallon’s monologue to the audience's surprise.
This marked Letterman’s first 'Tonight Show' appearance since 1992, when Johnny Carson was the host, decades before Jimmy Fallon took over.
Paul Shaffer, Letterman’s longtime bandleader, and his World’s Most Dangerous Band were filling in for The Roots during their rehearsals for an upcoming 'Saturday Night Live' special.
The reunion included humorous moments such as a TikTok joke, a tortilla slap battle, and Letterman referencing his history in late-night TV.
Letterman’s appearance brought nostalgia for his years hosting NBC’s 'Late Night' and CBS’s 'Late Show,' as well as his famous rivalry with Jay Leno after losing 'The Tonight Show' hosting role in 1992.