Classic television: Oprah on Letterman

Posted by Maximum Fun on 15th May 2007

Nick Adams here.

Every now and then, television transcends basic entertainment and becomes an event. Jon Stewart’s famous bitch slapping of Carlson and Begala on CNN’s Crossfire immediately comes to mind. As does this other gem from the recent past.

After sixteen years of a supposed feud, Oprah Winfrey finally made her way back to The Late Show with David Letterman back in December of 2005. Witness two television legends at the top of their game.

See!

*The legendarily acerbic Letterman talking about reading Runaway Bunny to his son.

*Oprah’s present to Dave, which I won’t spoil for you.

*Oprah’s shock at Dave’s desire to talk about her efforts to build the much-discussed Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for girls.


But the big finale takes the cake. In an incredible bit of showbiz collusion and producorial foresight, Dave literally escorts Oprah outside, down the sidewalk, down the red carpet and right to the Broadway premiere of The Color Purple. It’s not very often that I find myself using the word classy without a hint of sarcasm. Enjoy.