Tuesday, Dec. 08, 2009
Et Tu, Letterman?
David Letterman is considered to be late-night TV's quirkiest uncle, but after Oct. 1, he also became its creepiest. On that night, just before doing his Top 10 list, he told viewers a "little story" about how he had taken part in a sting against a guy who Letterman said was blackmailing him for $2 million for keeping quiet about how the late-night host was bedding women on his staff. Even more bizarrely, the alleged extortionist turned out to be a producer on another CBS show, 48 Hours, Robert (Joe) Halderman, 51, whose girlfriend was one of Letterman's conquests. Subsequently, Letterman apologized to his wife and his staff. While his reputation as an employer and husband took a blow, his ratings improved.