late night wars

David Letterman Bid Jay Leno A Gracious Farewell

The long and bitter rivalry between David Letterman and Jay Leno finally dissolved yesterday, and in last night’s episode of The Late Show, Letterman accepted his late-night throne with both graciousness and what seemed like genuine sympathy for the ousted host. Instead, Letterman directed his animosity toward NBC, questioning how a network could reward the deliverer of consistent, top ratings with an “Adios” — though he still managed to insert one last (?) high-pitched impersonation into his Top Ten list of things he’ll miss most about Leno. Watch the condolence speech in the video ahead.