Radio Atlantic David Letterman on the Threats to Late-Night Hosts
33 snips
Sep 19, 2025 
David Letterman, the iconic late-night host known for his political comedy, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with editor Jeffrey Goldberg. He addresses the recent suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show as a grave threat to free speech. Letterman critiques the pressure from the FCC, reflecting on how he has navigated such challenges over the decades. He warns about the dangers of 'managed media' and authoritarianism, emphasizing the necessity for comedy's independence and the importance of defending constitutional norms in today's landscape.
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FCC Pressure Signals Managed Media
- David Letterman argues FCC pressure on networks represents managed media and a drift toward authoritarianism.
- He warns corporate fear of government will silence political comedy and erode free expression.
Networks Folded Quickly After FCC Remarks
- Letterman recounts how networks removed Colbert's franchise and then Jimmy Kimmel's show was suspended the same day as FCC threats.
- He frames these moves as corporations preemptively bowing to political pressure rather than defending comedians.
FCC's Role Has Shifted In Letterman's View
- Letterman contrasts the FCC's traditional technical role with its new rhetorical threats about content enforcement.
- He expresses bewilderment that the commission would be used to intimidate entertainers.
