31 Years In Late Night: Highlights From The Career Of David Letterman

David Letterman announced his upcoming retirement on Thursday’s Late Show. Dave’s late night career will come to an end some time in 2015.

He’s given audiences 31 years of Top 10s, Stupid Pet Tricks, Stupid Human Tricks, Larry “Bud” Melman, Monkey Cams, The Guy Under The Seats, Will It Float?, Biff Henderson, Small Town News, Fun Facts, the Hello Deli, Regis, Great Moments in Presidential Speeches and jokes about Sarah Palin’s daughter. From Late Night on NBC starting in 1982 to the Late Show on CBS, here are some of the memorable moments from David Letterman.

First Late Night episode on NBC with Dave’s very first guest Bill Murray. Bill brought it all to Dave’s first show, wild accusations, panda videos and getting “physical”.  Go to the 11:55 mark for television’s greatest aerobics demonstration.

Andy Kaufman and Jerry “The King” Lawler appear on Late Night with David Letterman on July 28, 1982. The slap heard ’round late night happens at the 9:05 mark

Here’s Dave’s first Top 10 List complete with an explanation on why he’s doing it.

David Letterman goes on the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson to discuss not getting the Tonight Show. Johnny cuts to the chase at the 3:15 mark

David Letterman’s press conference after signing with CBS.

The first Late Show debuts on CBS on August 30, 1993. David Letterman is finally at 11:30.

Drew Barrymore gives Letterman a memorable birthday flash in 1995. That happens at the 4:15 mark.

February 21, 2000: After 6 weeks, David Letterman returns to the Late Show after having quintuple bypass surgery.

September 19, 2001: David Letterman brings the Late Show back after the 9-11 attacks.

Letterman gives everyone a Super Bowl 44 surprise with Oprah.

The show must go on. David Letterman does the Late Show without an audience after Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Here’s what a Top 10 List looks like without an audience or graphics.

After 31 years in late night, David Letterman announces his retirement.