It’s always fascinating to dive into the behind-the-scenes stories of talk shows, and one legendary show that has certainly had its fair share of memorable moments is David Letterman‘s. In a recent interview, producer Robert “Morty” Morton shared some of his favorite moments from his 14-year tenure on the show.
One unforgettable guest was Kmar, who seemed to bring a dose of unpredictability every time he appeared. Whether it was technical mishaps or hilarious blunders, Kmar always managed to liven up the show. And who could forget the time Kmar‘s famous catchphrase went viral?
Morty also recalled a daring challenge they took on when the FCC ruled against having hypnotists on talk shows for fear that the audience might get hypnotized. They decided to test the rule and invited Mentalist and hypnotist Marshall Silver on the show. With some mesmerizing moments, they proved that the ruling might not be as valid as they thought.
But it wasn’t just guests who brought the entertainment. Bill Wendell, the show’s announcer, had a habit of letting out unexpected gas during the middle of the show, much to the amusement of everyone on set. It was a private joke among the staff that eventually made its way on air, adding to the hilarity of the show.
The show wasn’t just about celebrity interviews and comedy sketches; it was also known for its unique and innovative episodes. One standout was when they decided to shoot an entire show on a transatlantic flight. The team, including Morty, had only a three-hour window to tape the episode while on a plane from New York to Miami. The rest of the week was spent enjoying some downtime in Miami Beach, proving that the fun didn’t end when the cameras stopped rolling.
Morty himself became a recurring character on the show, often getting involved in comedic bits with Letterman. From being teased about his personal life to participating in outlandish skits, Morty’s presence added a delightful dynamic to the show.
And let’s not forget the walk-ons. Danny Thomas, known for his spit takes, made a memorable appearance, as did Barbara Stend, who insisted on entering from stage left instead of the usual stage right. These unexpected guests always kept the audience guessing.
Morty’s tenure as producer also saw the rise of some groundbreaking stand-up comedians. Jeff Ross made an appearance that radiated joy, while Dave Chappelle made his network television debut in torn jeans and a ratty t-shirt. Chappelle’s iconic performance and jokes about racial stereotypes left a lasting impression on the show.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. One particularly awkward moment occurred when Madonna unleashed a profanity-laden interview, causing controversy. Morty found himself caught in the middle, with Dave assuming he had given Madonna permission to say whatever she wanted. It was a tense situation that eventually turned into one of the most famous moments in show history.
Whether it was working late hours, making split-second decisions, or being the butt of jokes, Morty Morton’s role as producer made the show what it was. His close involvement with Letterman added an extra layer of humor that became a staple of the show.
Looking back, it’s clear that the “Late Show with David Letterman” was so much more than just a talk show. It was a blend of comedy, spontaneity, and unexpected moments that left audiences entertained and eager for more. And as for Morty Morton, his contributions behind the scenes were invaluable, making him an essential part of the show’s success.
