Late Show with David Letterman: Season 10
Season 10 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- Directly follows the overarching narrative developments of Late Show with David Letterman Season 9.
- Faction dynamics and core character alliances shift under escalating external stakes.
- Crucial mysteries introduced previously reach key turning points and narrative reckonings.
- Sets up serialized story arcs that build directly toward the climactic season finale.
Episode Guide
Season 10 Progress Shield
Amanda Peet, Tom Dreesen
Sep 3, 2002
Dave mentions that a street is being named after Paul in his hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Later, Dave plays ""How Many Guys in Alien Suits Can Fit Into a Coffee Shop?""
Jeff Goldblum, George Miller
Sep 4, 2002
Dave shows a promo for Al Jazzera's new show ""Afghani Idol;"" Dave calls Paul a half-wit, then apologizes several times; George Miller comments on frozen cryogenics and asks, ""Wh
Drea de Matteo, Sarah Vowell, The Doves
Sep 5, 2002
Steph/Monty is on the roof with binoculars, looking for Bon Jovi performing in Times Square. Later, another one of Dave's assistants applies sunscreen on our weary voyeur.
Peter Jennings, John Witherspoon
Sep 6, 2002
During CBS Mailbag, a viewer asks how Biff chose where to go during his summer tour. Biff responds by thanking ""Rand"" and ""McNally,"" who turn out to be a couple of much younge
John McEnroe, Piper Perabo, Queens of the Stone Age
Sep 9, 2002
Dave shows a (supposed) clip from the hit movie ""SwimFan,"" then chats with Stephanie about the US Open.
Jennifer Esposito, Marianne Faithful
Sep 10, 2002
Dave introduces the man that supposedly punched David Wells; Rupert's Paul Shaffer sandwich beats Europa Cafe's basil chicken sandwich in a taste contest; ""Dr."" Bill DeLace addre
Bill Clinton, Nanci Griffith
Sep 11, 2002
Dave reflects on a certain one-year anniversary, then chats with his former monologue punching bag, President Bill Clinton.
Regis Philbin, Linda Thompson
Sep 12, 2002
Dave announces the show can no longer be seen in Mexico City; Dave introduces Network Time Killers such as ""Korean Soap Opera Clip of the Night"" and ""Anton Fig's Beret of Myster
Megan Mullally, Rich Hall
Sep 13, 2002
Dave announces that any cell phones that go off during the taping will be smashed with a hammer; ""Dr. Phil"" (Gerard) tells Dave that he's deeply insane; Rich Hall comments on ""H
Bruce Willis, Eve
Sep 23, 2002
After watching Oprah win the Bob Hope Award at last night's Emmys; Dave demands to win it in 2003; Dave gives Barbara Gaines a kiss for her heartfelt speech at last night's ceremon
Jack Hanna, Tom Cavanagh, Civil War Reenactment
Sep 24, 2002
In observance of an incedent that occured at a White Sox-Royals game the previous week, two shirtless drunks beat the crap out of Alan. Later, a Civil War battle is awkwardly recr
Reese Witherspoon, Juan Pablo Montoya, India.Arie
Sep 25, 2002
During the annual ""New for Fall"" segment, Alan's hair changes color. Later in the same segment, he is beaten up by Harvey Keitel.
Rose McGowan, Phillipe Petit
Sep 26, 2002
Artiste Phillipe Petit walks on a metal cable 12 stories up and 120 feet long across Broadway.
Lauren Graham, Colin Quinn
Sep 27, 2002
Dave announces that he has ""nitrogen narcosis."" Later, during CBS Mailbag, Harold Larkin recalls his harrowing experience of being stuck in an elevator for three hours... with R
Patricia Heaton, Murray Walker
Sep 30, 2002
Dave hollers about being the only person in the entire building who wasn't invited to a staff fondue party for Mary Barclay; billards champ Jeanette ""Black Widow"" Lee does a few
David Schwimmer, Avril Lavigne
Oct 1, 2002
Dave reminds the nation that he still definitely wants I-465 (the interstate around Indianapolis) named David Letterman Expressway, then announces that tomorrow he plans to offer t
Anthony LaPaglia, Effie Nielson, Clinic
Oct 2, 2002
Biff celebrates his 56th birthday in grand style; Dave kills a bug on his desk; Dave chats with a nonogenarian weightlifter.
Edward Norton, John Mayer
Oct 3, 2002
Dave contacts Indianapolis mayor Bart Peterson's office via telephone, and his assistant tells him that renaming the I-465 is a possibility. Later, John Mayer sang ""Your Body is
David Arquette, Todd Lynn
Oct 4, 2002
Dave says he is feeling ""bilious,"" and that he will be going to an anger management course in Pennsylvania this weekend; during CBS Mailbag, Kenny professes his love to Pat on an
Jennifer Love Hewitt, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
Oct 7, 2002
53rd Street is the stage for the Purina® Dog Chow diving competition; Dave has choice words for Don Hewitt, who disliked a ""60 Minutes"" joke from last friday's show; Dave shows "
John McCain, David Sedaris
Oct 8, 2002
A recurring joke for the night (which involved an ice ball called Quaoar) is botched when Harold Larkin disappears; Senator John McCain plugs his new book ""Worth the Fighting For"
Charles Barkley, Franco Zeffirelli, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Oct 9, 2002
Tonight's desk time begins with trouble. A housefly is buzzing Dave, then lands on a guest chair. Dave takes a swat at it and declares ""Late Show"" a no-fly zone. Later, George
Michelle Pfeiffer, Bon Jovi
Oct 10, 2002
America's fastest-growing whoop-tee-do, ""Stump the Band,"" has the CBS Orchestra so excited that Paul is doing his horrible Carnac impression again. Later, Michelle Pheiffer prom
Johnny Knoxville, Ron White
Oct 11, 2002
During CBS Mailbag, someone asks ""Who is the smartest person on the Late Show staff?"" Dave points out that Late Show Film Coordinator Rick ""Shecky"" Scheckman is very well-read
Debra Messing, Pink
Oct 14, 2002
Dave shows a newspaper ad from Indy for the Dancers Showclub, instructing guests to take 12B off the ""Dave Letterman Expressway."" He thanks them by promoting the nudie club near
Thandie Newton, Faith Hill
Oct 15, 2002
Dave announces he's been named the 17th-most-powerful person in show business; Don Rickles' torso is the supposed mystery scan on the ""Late Show Celebrity X-Ray Challenge""; Faith
Rudolph Giuliani, Naomi Watts
Oct 16, 2002
Dave walks around during the monologue; Sam Moore (of Sam & Dave fame) sits in; a giant rat flies over New York City; Naomi Watts promotes ‘The Ring.""
Samuel L. Jackson, Santana & Michelle Branch
Oct 17, 2002
According to Dave, scientists have discovered a massive black hole at the center of our Milky Way galaxy. Head carpenter Harold Larkin is good enough to open the side stage door so
P. Diddy, Eddie Brill
Oct 18, 2002
During CBS Mailbag, George Clarke receives a mint-flavored flu shot, and we learn where the blue index cards go after each show (the furnace). Later, Late Show warm-up comedian Ed
Bonnie Hunt, Christina Aquilera
Oct 28, 2002
Steph/Monty asks ""Survivor 5"" loser Robb Zbacnik two very interrogating questions: 1. ""How did you find the weather in Thailand?"" 2. ""Did you see or touch any monkeys?"" Also
Salma Hayek, Tori Amos
Oct 29, 2002
Intuitive Deborah Lynn ready for another dismal failure in ""Psychic Sandwich""; Dave looks at a Cooking Light magazine for some unexplained reason; Salma Hayek promotes ""Frida.""
Warren Zevon
Oct 30, 2002
It's a somber and bittersweet night as Dave brings out longtime friend Warren Zevon as his only guest. Zevon was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, and the second half of th
Jerry Seinfeld, Foo Fighters
Oct 31, 2002
Amongst this year's ""New Halloween Costumes:"" Dr. Phil, a ""Marlboro Grocery Check-Out order divider,"" and a trio of Saddam Hussein doubles. Plus, ten drill instructors present
Don Rickles, Jim Gaffigan
Nov 1, 2002
During CBS Mailbag, George Clarke explains why breakfast is the most important meal of the day, while Dave has an exclusive interview with ""Lizzie Grubman"" (actually Gerard Mulli
Stupid Human Tricks, Sean Hayes, Willie Nelson & Ryan Adams
Nov 4, 2002
During ""Stupid Human Tricks,"" a couple from Chicago switches underwear with each other without taking off their clothes; former Mets manager Bobby Valentine presents the Top Ten;
Julianne Moore, Grant Paulsen, Blind Boys of Alabama
Nov 6, 2002
Dave shows (bogus) footage of Bill Clinton accepting the nomination for a third term in office; Julianne Moore plugs ""Far From Heaven""; 14-year-old sports journalist Grant Paulso
Kid Inventors, Tom Brokaw, The Wallflowers
Nov 7, 2002
Dave accuses Indianapolis mayor Bart Peterson of letting the expressway thing go through, and then makes an ultimatum. Later, a ""Kid Inventor"" from Tampa demonstrates her ""Easy
Brittany Murphy, Al Lubel
Nov 8, 2002
During Mailbag, James Jackson ""Biff"" Henderson ""answers"" a question about his name by standing around with the Hi-Ho girls; Dave points out that this his 1900th episode on CBS,
Robin Williams, Emily Proctor
Nov 11, 2002
Steph/Monty analyzes the recent election; Robin Williams promotes his ""Live on Broadway"" CD; ten astronauts present the Top Ten.
Kelly Ripa, Emmitt Smith, Missy Elliott
Nov 12, 2002
Dave apologizes to his Broadway neighbors for setting off fireworks the previous night; Dave points out that in Europe, the name of Eminem's new movie is ""12.875 Kilometer""; Miss
Barbara Walters, Joe Pantoliano
Nov 13, 2002
Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits sits in; Joe Pantoliano plugs his new book; amongst the potential bestsellers coming out this Christmas: More Advice I Pulled Out of My Ass by Dr. Phi
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Pearl Jam
Nov 14, 2002
During a timeline of a day in the life of Saddam Hussein, we learn that Iraqi People Weekly has named him ""Sexiest Man Alive"" for the tenth straight year. Also, Pat and Kenny re
Al Gore, Pearl Jam
Nov 15, 2002
CBS Mailbag: A viewer asks, ""How would New York City be different if you were mayor?"" We then go outside to where two police officers are cracking down on a parking violator. H
Kevin James, matchbox 20
Nov 18, 2002
The entire audience for tonight's show is from Schoharie, New York. In honor of his generosity, the street that goes to the local sewer plant has been renamed ""David Letterman La
Shania Twain, Cristiano da Matta
Nov 19, 2002
Dave asks Harold Larkin if he watched the Lenoid Meteor Shower last night. He then opens the exit next to the stage, where, with the magic of green-screen, the moon explodes. Als
Adam Sandler, Pussycat Dolls
Nov 20, 2002
Adam Sandler expresses a desire to hang out with Dave. Also, the Pussycat Dolls burlesque troupe performs with special guest Carmen Electra.
Ice Cube, Cast of Hairspray
Nov 21, 2002
Dave points out that a doctor in England recently did an autopsy for a paying audience. Cut to George Clarke, in the boiler room, who by coincidence is also conducting an autopsy.
Harry Connick Jr., Larry Miller
Nov 22, 2002
During Mailbag, a viewer asks if Biff ever takes off his headset. Dave spins the query by asking what he listens to on those things. Biff then removes the headset and puts it up
Stupid Pet Tricks, Lisa Kudrow, Audioslave
Nov 25, 2002
Lisa Kudrow promotes ""Analyze That"" while Audioslave brings the house down (almost literally) with a scorching rendition of ""Cochise.""
George Clooney, Jack Hanna
Nov 26, 2002
Production staff member Eddie Valk tries to answer the question, ""Can a Guy in a Turkey Suit Hail a Cab?"" Apparently not. Later, Steph/Monty grills George Clooney about his nud
Ray Romano, Jurassic 5
Nov 27, 2002
Dave rants about a false alarm on a New York City blizzard; amongst the potential bestselling gifts for Christmas is a futuristic clock that tells the time one hour in the future;
Amy Sedaris, The Strokes
Nov 28, 2002
For Thanksgiving, Marv Albert sits at Dorothy's kitchen table, eagerly anticipating one of her world-famous pies. Also, The Strokes perform ""Someday.""
Liza Minnelli, Jann Karam
Nov 29, 2002
During Mailbag, Dave mentions that he's been a very good boy this year and that he wants a John Deere riding mower for Christmas. Also, comedian Jann Karam talks about her boyfrie
Jennifer Lopez, Sum 41
Dec 9, 2002
A giant rat knocks over the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center; during ""Stephanie Birkett, Official Pollster,"" Dave's assistant asks a man on the street if Rudolph the Red-Nose
Nia Vardalos, Barry Sonnenfeld
Dec 11, 2002
Throughout the night, Biff attempts to build an IKEA bookshelf in the theater lobby. Despite using only the Swedish instructions and claiming ""I can't build s***,"" the bookshelf
Allison Janney, Martin Scorsese
Dec 12, 2002
During ""KYCE,"" a cop attempts to punch Dave; Allison Janney plugs ""The Hours.""
Natasha Richardson, Mike Birbiglia, David Gray
Dec 13, 2002
Dave waxes philosophy: ""I believe there isn't a man, woman, or child who doesn't enjoy a lovely beverage."" Also, comedian Mike Birbiglia makes his network television debut.
Catherine Zeta-Jones, Coldplay
Dec 16, 2002
Dave repeatedly shows a ""60 Minutes"" clip showcasing Lesley Stahl's unique facial movements; as they do every year, Rupert, Joe G, Mujibur, and Sirajul decorate the Late Show Chr
Drew Barrymore, Rod Stewart
Dec 17, 2002
Osama and his half-awake sidekick sing ""We Wish You a Merry Christmas."" Also, Dave ponders, ""How Many Guys In Santa Suits Can Fit Into a Coffee Shop?"" By the end of the show,
Denzel Washington, Daniel Bouloud
Dec 18, 2002
Greg Adams of The Tower of Power horn section sits in; Osama and his sidekick sing Christmas carols; Dave reads Daniel Boloud's cookbook.
Tom Hanks, Phish
Dec 19, 2002
George Clarke takes a bath in the ""Will It Float?"" tank; the sixteen stars of ""Survivor: Thailand"" present the Top Ten; Phish performs ""All of These Dreams.""
Liv Tyler, Jay Thomas, Darlene Love
Dec 20, 2002
Osama Bin Laden wishes Dave a merry christmas via video greeting card; Gerard Mulligan has something to say to Al Gore during ""CBS Mailbag;"" an annual tradition continues as Jay
Ashton Kutcher, Jason Kidd
Dec 26, 2002
During ""Is This Anything?,"" a man swallows a neon light sword. Dave and Paul agree that this is something, but only because of the danger involved.
Michael Caine, George Foreman
Jan 6, 2003
Dave shows a copy of George Foreman's new book, followed by a ""Michael Caine Grill""; Stephanie dances like her unnamed ex-boyfriend to the band playing Rod Stewart's ""Do You Thi
Richard Gere, Chris Elliott
Jan 7, 2003
Dave discusses his experiences with shampooing over the years, and announces that earlier today he inadvertently conditioned before shampooing. Lo and behold, there's absolutely n
Merv Griffin, Interpol
Jan 8, 2003
The shirtless father and son from that White Sox-Royals game in 2002 are elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame; Merv Griffin promotes his autobiography; Interpol performs ""PDA.""
Renee Zellweger, Chuck Barris
Jan 9, 2003
Ten members of the 82nd Airborne Division based in Afghanistan present the Top Ten. The soldier who presents #6 proposes to his girlfriend, who accepts via telephone. Also, today'
Andy Richter, Rich Hall
Jan 10, 2003
Mailbag: Dave shows an ad for the mother of all reality shows, ""Bachelorette Millionaire Boat Survivor Race Factor Idol."" He also tries to make sense out of ""Rael"" (Gerard), a
Jimmy Kimmel, Simon Baker
Jan 13, 2003
Dave talks football, while Jimmy Kimmel promotes his upcoming talk show on ABC.
Claire Danes, Bob Sarlatte
Jan 14, 2003
Dave announces that today is the 3rd anniversary of his quintuple bypass, and upon mentioning this, Regis interrupts the jokes to give Dave a quick check-up. ""You're screwed,"" R
Sandra Bullock, Marv Albert
Jan 15, 2003
Dave shows a bogus eulogy by the network commemorating yesterday's big anniversary; Sandra Bullock promotes Two Weeks Notice; Dave asks Biff to check the weather outside, and watch
George Clooney, Soundtrack of Our Lives
Jan 16, 2003
CBS won't stop airing their 30-second eulogy to the ""late, great"" Dave; Dave shows a promo for the upcoming Survivor: Jihad, then wishes a happy birthday to an audience member.
Joan Rivers, Kathleen Edwards
Jan 17, 2003
Mailbag: ""Who do you consider to be your best friend from the Late Show?"" Paul responds to this question by performing an original song dedicated to his best friend in the whole
Simon Cowell, Topher Grace, Vienna Teng
Jan 20, 2003
Osama praises ""Kangaroo Jack"" for his contempt for the infidels; Steph/Monty reviews the aforementioned movie, then makes a daring Super Bowl prediction (Bucs by 26!); ""Dwight t
Regis Philbin, John C. Reilly
Jan 21, 2003
It's so cold outside, Alan's hair has turned a light shade of blue, but it turns out to be a Clairol® mishap. Also, Dave bids farewell to longtime comic foils Mujibur and Sirajul b
Tina Fey, Jonathan Ames, Johnny Marr & The Healers
Jan 22, 2003
Alan's hair has now turned green; Paul tries to spin a ball on a parasol like the lady who appeared in tonight's ""Is This Anything?"", but fails miserably; Tina Fey promotes the S
Ellen DeGeneres, Zwan
Jan 23, 2003
In a new, experimental segment, reporter Penny Crone contributes a ""Local News Update of the Night""; Dave admits that his friends are getting sick of ""Is This Anything?"", but h
Bonnie Hunt, John Witherspoon
Jan 24, 2003
Mailbag: George Clarke has learned to speak Italian: ""Imgana cuccia nutsoff."" Also, fertile make-up maven Michele O'Callaghan provides a cape for Paul's Friday night breakdown.
Show #1944Kate Hudson, Jack Hanna
Feb 3, 2003
Dave congratulates Frank Comito upon the birth of his daughter; Biff reports from Super Bowl XXXVII; a capybara (a large rat) sits on Kate Hudson's head and eats a banana, with due
Kelsey Grammer, Michael Tong, B.B. King and Shemeika Copeland
Feb 5, 2003
Upon showing off a fake invitation to Colin Powell's address to the United Nations, Dave starts singing a Paul Anka song; Alan hits on the wife of Hans Blix, and then later learns
Brendan Fraser, Kids in The Hall, Bonnie Raitt, Keb' Mo, Kim Wilson
Feb 7, 2003
During Mailbag, Dave shows a clip from the upcoming CBS drama ""CSI: Lancaster, PA""; the Kids in the Hall comedy troupe performs a skit about women's problems; Paul's Friday-night
Matthew Broderick, Tony Bennett & k.d. Lang
Feb 10, 2003
Alan is dressed as Saddam Hussein, claiming he's just trying to do his part; throughout the night, show dogs from the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show walk around the theater; Pat
Amy Brennamen, Nate Erwin, Vince Gill
Feb 11, 2003
Throughout the night, Steph/Monty shops at 21 on 52nd Street.
Kid Scientists, Kurt Russell
Feb 13, 2003
Steph/Monty is dressed in a kimono for ""Know Your Current Events""; Dave mentions that Dr. Phil will be on Monday, and he plans to open up a serious can of whoop-ass; Homer Simpso
Kate Winslet, Dennis Regan, Rufus Wainwright
Feb 14, 2003
Dave talks to ""Michael Jackson"" (actually Gerard) during CBS Mailbag. Later, comedian Dennis Regan rants about marriage.
Dr. Phil, Beck
Feb 17, 2003
Throughout the night, Steph/Monty measures the accumulated snowfall on the roof of the theater; Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip presents the Top Ten; Dr. Phil makes his first-
Vince Vaughn, Sarah Vowel, Beck
Feb 18, 2003
A guy whose flight from LaGuardia to Atlanta was delayed by snow sits in with the band; Mayor Bloomberg presents the Top Ten; Alan wants Dwight the Troubled Teen to shovel snow.
Kevin Spacey, Reggie Miller
Feb 19, 2003
Amongst the ""New Catalogs"": Crate & Barrel (with new barrel-sized crates), Starbucks Coffee by Mail, and something called ""International Monkey."" Also, Kevin Spacey does impre
Champion Turkey Callers, Marg Helgenberger, The Flaming Lips
Feb 20, 2003
In honor of tonight's Turkey Calling Champions, Dave has a swig of Wild Turkey bourbon; ""Biff Henderson's America"" makes a stop in Palomar Mountain, California, where he stands o
Jeff Daniels, Lynne Cox, Steven Wright
Feb 21, 2003
Solomon Burke sits in; during Mailbag, Dave points out that a nudist-friendly Kinko's has opened nearby, while ""police chief"" Bill DeLace complains that Dave and Harold Larkin ha
Steve Martin, Foo Fighters
Feb 24, 2003
Dave mentions that Paul and Alan were involved with last night's Grammy Awards; Rupert asks ""non-surviving Survivor"" Janet Koth if there was any hanky-panky in the Amazon (but of
Stupid Human Tricks, Sharon Osborne, Norah Jones
Feb 25, 2003
Dave mentions that he woke up this morning with a swollen eye, then hypothesizes that it's either an irritation, infection or inflammation; during ""Stupid Human Tricks,"" a man ju
Bruce Willis, Dan Rather, Carmen Electra, Brian Kiley
Feb 26, 2003
Dave's worsening eye infection puts him on the bench indefinitely, so scheduled guest Bruce Willis fills in for Daddy. Amongst tonight's highlights: Bruno and George Clarke duct t
John McEnroe, Tom Arnold, Eric Ripert, Todd Barry, Jason Mras
Feb 27, 2003
Tennis great John McEnroe fills in for Dave, whose condition has not improved; Fred Schnieder of The B-52's fills in for Paul, whom, according to Bones Malone, has an appointment w
Regis Philbin, Charles Grodin, Susan Lucci, Greg Giraldo, Kathleen Edwards
Feb 28, 2003
Regis fills in for Dave, who has now been diagnosed with shingles; Greg Giraldo does stand-up; Kathleen Edwards sings ""Hockey Skates.""
Whoopi Goldberg, Jessica Lange, Dave Chappelle, Andy Vistola, Ben Harper
Mar 10, 2003
Whoopi Goldberg (a former talk-show host in her own right) is the latest to fill in for Dave during his extended bout with shingles. She starts the monologue by announcing that ""
Vince Vaughn, Rosie Perez, Geri Halliwell, Dwayne Kennedy, Paul Simon
Mar 11, 2003
Guest host Vince Vaughn charms the audience and hits on Rosie Perez.
Will Ferrell, Chris Rock, Crispin Glover, Jake Johannsen, American Hi-Fi
Mar 13, 2003
Will Ferrell joins fellow ""Old School"" star Vince Vaughn as a guest host on Letterman. In his monolouge, Will does his famous George W. Bush impression and serenades the absent
Megan Mullally, Molly Shannon, Isaac Mizrahi, Bonnie McFarlane
Mar 14, 2003
Will & Grace star Megan Mullally shows a clip of her tripping as she walked onstage to accept an award at last Sunday's Screen Actors Guild awards. Later, she sings a blues number
Brad Garrett, Cuba Gooding Jr., Julie Bowen, Reggie McFadden, Lyle Lovett
Mar 17, 2003
Brad Garrett of Everybody Loves Raymond fame does a very Letterman-esque, one-liner heavy monologue, then mentions a recent medical mishap where his testes broke his fall. Also, L
Tom Dreesen, Kiefer Sutherland, Frank Gershin, Suzanne Westenhoefer, The Music
Mar 18, 2003
Chicago-born comedian (and old friend of Dave's) Tom Dreseen becomes the latest fill-in host for Dave. He mentions that a fan outside the theater mistook him for Regis, then goes
Paul Schaffer, Bob Dole, Connie Nielsen, Jeff Foxworthy, Cat Power
Mar 24, 2003
Paul fills in for Dave, lamenting in song about the big shoes he has to fill; Mike Smith of the Dave Clark Five fills in for Paul, who later sings the band's hit ""Because""; indie
Bill Cosby, Andrew Firestone, Clark Tery, Sofia Vergara, The DA
Mar 25, 2003
In a bizarre running gag, Bill Cosby pretends to be so senile that a substitute cue-card boy introduces all of tonight's guests; Hilton Ruiz, Spaceman Paterson, Steve Berrios, and
Luke Wilson, Kelly Preston, Taye Diggs, Hilary Burton, Seether
Mar 26, 2003
Luke Wilson brings up a story about how he told his Old School co-stars Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn he was hosting the Late Show. He was surprised by how unimpressed they were, a
Billy Crystal, Michael Barimo
Mar 31, 2003
Dave returns from a month-long hiatus and makes fun of his health problems. He also shows an old ""Tonight Show"" clip as a tribute to the late, great George Miller.
Colin Farrell, Rosanne Cash
Apr 1, 2003
""I have to be here tonight,"" Dave utters in the monologue, ""I'm out of sick days."" An ""Incredible Dog Challenge"" sponsored by Purina Dog Chow has been postponed by the weath
Helen Hunt, Jeremy Suarez, Cory Branan
Apr 2, 2003
Dave shows footage of Donald Rumsfeld unintentionally flipping the bird at a press conference, and later he chats with adolescent ""Bernie Mac Show"" star Jeremy Suarez.
High-Jumping Dogs, Vin Diesel, Bo Diddley
Apr 3, 2003
After admitting that his medicine is making him bloated, Dave loosens his belt for all the world to see; during Biff's annual visit to Yankees Spring Training, he and Hideki Matsui
Hilary Swank, Jimmie Walker
Apr 4, 2003
Mailbag: ""Does Alan Kalter really have a twin?"" Dave points out that he does have a brother named Rick, but Alan interrupts with a chin rub. Apparently, Big Red recently discove
Adam Sandler, The Folksmen
Apr 8, 2003
Dave shows a clip of Les Moonves on last night's episode of The Practice; Dave warns Steph/Monty to not ask the monkey question, but she does anyway; The Folksmen (stars of the fil
Lisa Marie Presley, Jamie Kennedy
Apr 9, 2003
Dave and Paul wonder openly what to ask Lisa Marie Presley, who is on the show tonight to promote her first solo album. Later in the show, she sings ""Lights Out.""
Jane Krakowski, Jim Boeheim, Pete Yorn
Apr 14, 2003
Dave reminds us that his 56th birthday was on Saturday, but he claims it was really his 34th and CBS aged him; Dave tells a funny story about George Miller's memorial service; ""Ho
Tom Brokaw, Tom Russell & Nanci Griffith
Apr 15, 2003
Dave announces that the Late Show (and not CNN) has the legal rights to a screen caption that reads ""Showdown: Syria""; Tony Mendez gets scolded by Daddy for abbreviating ""Dr. Ph
Michael Douglas, Todd Rundgren
Apr 16, 2003
Dave shows footage of chaos on the streets of Baghdad that bears that striking resemblance to West Side Story; a man balancing a burning bowling ball participates in ""Is This Anyt
Anthony LaPaglia, Brian Regan, The Exies
Apr 17, 2003
Dave congratulates cameraman Dave Dorsett on fifty years in the biz; during Mailbag, a viewer asks why Dave doesn't throw stuff off the roof anymore, resulting in a flashback where
Ashton Kutcher, Jack Hanna
Apr 28, 2003
Due to today's weather, Dave raises the temperature inside the theater from 53 to 57 degrees; Dave comments on the Iraqi playing cards, then points out that Mickey Rooney is the 8
Ellen DeGeneres, John Malkovich
Apr 29, 2003
Sam Moore sits in again; Carmen Rasmussen of ""American Idol"" presents the Top Ten; John Malkovich promotes his new clothing line.
Charlize Theron, Sue Johanson, Minus 5 with Wilco
Apr 30, 2003
An Iraqi Republican guard that bears more than a passing resemblance to a dazed Calvert walks by Dave right after the monologue; Dave attempts to make ""Wash it, gas it, give me th
Bernie Mac, Amanda Peet
May 1, 2003
Mailbag: ""Whatever happened to the bear that mauled Alan Kalter?"" According to VH1's Where Are They Now?, the bear was fired for stealing a monitor in 1999, but he rebounded and
Halle Berry, Don Rickles
May 2, 2003
Dave has Kentucky Derby announcer Dave Johnson on the phone so he can hear him say, ""…and down the stretch they come!""; the latest ""Rejected FDA Items"" include baloney playin
Kelly Rippa, Good Charlotte
May 5, 2003
Prompted by an audience member's request the week before, Pat, Steph/Monty, and a new employee throw stuff off the roof throughout the show for the first time since 1998; Dave meet
Stupid Human Tricks, Hugh Jackson, Kelly Clarkson
May 6, 2003
Dave shows off his regular coffee mug, then a mug given to him by Dr. Phil that's almost twice that size, then the new, even larger Late Show mug; during ""Stupid Human Tricks,"" a
David Hyde Pierce, Rube Goldberg Contest Winners, Ziggy Marley
May 7, 2003
A staffer dressed as Nightcrawler from the ""X-Men"" movies tries to hail a cab, but ends up on a rickshaw; Joe Lieberman presents the Top Ten; Ziggy Marley performs ""True to Myse
Megan Mullally, Marilyn Manson
May 8, 2003
During Mailbag, Biff answers yet another question about his headset by unsuccessfully attempting to seduce the author of the letter; ten celebrity moms (including Dorothy) present
Albert Brooks, Jeffery Ross, The Libertines
May 9, 2003
Dave shows a CBS promo for ""Saddam Week""; a box of fish sticks and a bottle of perfume are subjected to a rare ""Will It Float?"" doubleheader; Albert Brooks promotes Finding Nem
Stupid Pet Tricks, Kevin James, Jenna Morasca
May 12, 2003
A high school senior in Jersey decides on his prom tuxedo, and ends up choosing a powder blue leisure suit; during ""Stupid Pet Tricks,"" a pink poodle sorts out blocks of differen
David Williams & Ronald Young, Jada Pinkett Smith, The Jayhawks
May 13, 2003
Dave reads the new disclaimer on the New York Times (""Not all articles are factual""); Chief Warrant Officers David Williams and Ronald Young, Jr. tell their incredible story of s
Sean Hayes, Eric Ripert, Avril Lavigne
May 14, 2003
Biff walks the streets of New York City looking for celebrities, or, for that matter, celebrity lookalikes; during a cooking segment with Eric Ripert, Dave slings back a bottle of
Rene Zellweger, Jack Johnson
May 15, 2003
Dave hypes some of the new shows that will be appearing on the networks this fall; Rupert Jee lets off a little steam on ""CBS Mailbag;"" Jack Johnson performs ""The Horizon Has Be
John Goodman, D.H. Hughley, NAS with Alicia Keys
May 16, 2003
John Goodman discusses his ""promotion"" to President on The West Wing; Johnny Knoxville delivers Paul's cape; Nas and Alicia Keys perform ""Warrior Song.""
Mark Wahlberg, Jesse James, the Sounds
May 19, 2003
Dave does the ""Charts and Graphs"" segment for the first time in over a year; Mark Wahlberg talks about his girlfriend, unborn child, and new house; The Sounds perform ""Seven Day
Jim Carrey, Chevelle
May 20, 2003
After Dave makes a joke about CBS' recent miniseries about Adolf Hitler, Paul and the band plays ""Danke Schoen;"" a woman is given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to call, and
Regis Philbin, 3 Doors Down
May 21, 2003
Dave shows off the latest oversized Late Show mug; Regis admits his contempt for last night's comedy bit at Hello Deli; 3 Doors Down performs ""The Road I'm On.""
Antonio Banderas, Heidi Klum, Liam Lynch
May 22, 2003
Dave announces that the unwieldy-huge Late Show mug that debuted last night is available for parties, and Dave attempts to sip some coffee out of it; Liam Lynch performs his novelt
Peter Krause, Jim Gaffigan, Widespread Panic
May 23, 2003
Throughout the night, Biff assembles a Weber Grill in the lobby; half the audience is comprised of sailors; Kareem Abdul-Jabbar delivers Paul's cape.
Adrien Brody, Gil de Ferran, John Mellencamp
Jun 2, 2003
In honor of a recent Team Rahal victory, Dave makes car noises; Steph/Monty discusses last weekend's Indianapolis 500 via telephone; ""What's on the Barbeque"" finds Biff trying to
Alec Baldwin, Tom Dreesen
Jun 3, 2003
Tisziji Munoz (a mentor of Paul's) sits in on guitar; Rupert and a Long Island girl play ""Stop the Slicer""; Alan introduces a video montage of what are intended to be various cel
Seth Green, Amy Sedaris, Lucinda Williams
Jun 4, 2003
Dave mentions that Tom Arnold will be filling in for him Friday night; staffer Eddie Valk participates in ""Can a Guy in a Horse Suit Get into FlashDancers?"" After successfully e
Barbara Walters, Tanya Streeter
Jun 5, 2003
Dave and Paul discuss skin diving; Dave makes the new Hillary Clinton memoirs the butt of several jokes; Seth Green promotes The Italian Job.
Tom Arnold, Darrell Hammond, Karolina Kurkova, Eddie Brill, Train
Jun 6, 2003
Tom Arnold fills in for Dave as he takes yet another night off. Later on, Tom welcomes longtime ""SNL"" cast member Darrell Hammond and rock group Train.
Juliette Binoche, Joe Queenan, Blur
Jun 9, 2003
Dave talks about a weekend onion-slicing accident involving his pinky, which results in a medical procedure live on stage.
Bruce Willis, Chris Moneymaker
Jun 10, 2003
Dave and Paul play ""Millionaire or Kenny?"" Later, Barbara Gaines (making a rare on-camera appearance) receives a surprise birthday cake; Bruce Willis shows off his new hairdo.
Lauren Graham, Marv Albert, Bright Eyes
Jun 11, 2003
Lauren Graham talks about her recent real estate acquisition; Marv Albert shows some of his favorite bloopers.
Harrison Ford, Annie Lennox
Jun 12, 2003
On ""CBS Mailbag,"" Alan Kalter is beaten up by leprechauns, plus Dave welcomes Harrison Ford, which gives him the chance to rehash a favorite line: ""I bought my first car at ""Ha
Tom Green, Jolene Blalock, Scott Stevens, Isaac Britty, Damien Rice
Jun 13, 2003
Host Tom Green (an Ottawa Senators fan) gets body-checked by Scott Stevens of the rival New Jersey Devils. Also, comedian Isaac Witty and singer-songwriter Damien Rice make their
Hilary Clinton, Emmylou Harris
Jun 16, 2003
Dave celebrates an important milestone; Biff Henderson goes to a senior prom in New Jersey; Dave chats with Hillary Clinton.
Rob Reiner, Paul Teutul Sr. & Jr., The New Pornographers
Jun 17, 2003
Rupert and Dave play ""Name That Baldwin""; Rob Reiner brags about his recent weight loss; Paul Teutel and Paul Teutel Jr. of the cable reality show American Chopper demonstrate th
Johnny Depp, Christine Todd Whitman, B.B. King
Jun 18, 2003
B.B. King sits in with the band; Biff teaches Dave how to ride a Segway; ""Dr. William Gammons"" gives the audience advice on monkeypox.
Kelsey Grammer, Treat Williams, James Earl Jones, Jamie Lynn-Sigler, Kathleen Madigan, Jesse Malin
Jun 20, 2003
Kelsey Grammer (aka Frasier Crane) talks about his 20-month-old daughter, then chats with fellow deep-voiced thespian James Earl Jones.
Demi Moore, Verbana
Jun 23, 2003
Demi Moore promotes her new movie ""Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle,"" her first major studio movie in six years. Later, Dave welcomes singer-songwriter Michelle Branch.
Drew Barrymore, Simon Cowell
Jun 24, 2003
Drew Barrymore promotes her new movie; Simon Cowell of ""American Idol"" fame talks about his new reality show ""Cupid.""
Lucy Liu, Avigayil Wardein, Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds
Jun 25, 2003
During ""Who Asked For It?,"" Alan uses CPR as an excuse to make out with an audience member; Dave makes his first PA announcement in almost four years, telling the crowd outside t
Piedmont Bird Callers, Luke Wilson, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Jun 26, 2003
Dave talks about his recent trip to the dentist. Later, Stephanie ""Monty"" Birkett dresses up as a princess for ""CBS Mailbag.""
Jimmy Fallon, Kristanna Loken, Dax, Chloe Sevigny, Bill Scheft, Rufus Wainwright
Jun 27, 2003
Jimmy Fallon of ""SNL"" fame sings an original composition about December-May relationships. Later, he chats with Chloe Sevigny and ""Late Show"" writer Bill Scheft.
Lisa Marie Presley, Ryan Pinkston
Jul 14, 2003
Dave half-jokingly announces his candidacy for Ohio's seat in the US Senate, then flirts with Lisa Marie Presley.
Allison Janney, Nigella Lawson, Howard Tate
Jul 15, 2003
George Clarke and Dave play ""Would You Like To Ride In Our Freight Elevator?"" Later, Dave welcomes an elderly (if not faithful) fan who made it to the audience after watching th
Barry Zito, Mandy Moore, Grandaddy
Jul 16, 2003
Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Barry Zito stands on the roof of the Broadway Theater, throwing baseballs at the Ed Sullivan Theater windows. Later, Grandaddy performs ""Now It's O
Ari Fleischer, Beyonce Knowles
Jul 17, 2003
Steph/Monty dresses up as a cowgirl for CBS Mailbag; Ari Fleishcher talks about his 2 1/2 years as Dubya's press secretary; Beyonce sings her smash hit ""Crazy In Love.""
Jeff Bridges, Alan Harvey, Joseph Arthur
Jul 18, 2003
Dave ventures into the audience for yet another round of ""Know Your Current Events;"" Jeff Bridges promotes the movie ""Seabiscuit.""
Aron Ralston, Tobey Maguire
Jul 21, 2003
Dave chats with Aron Ralston, the mountain climber who had to amputate his own arm following a climbing accident.
National Hollerin' Champions, Kristin Davis, Jane's Addiction
Jul 22, 2003
In honor of one of this summer's biggest blockbusters, Dave plays ""How Many Guys In Pirate Costumes Can Fit Into a Sandwich Shop?"" Later, Jane's Addiction performs ""Just Becaus
Joaquin Phoenix, Blues Traveler
Jul 23, 2003
Following last night's performance by Jane's Addiction, ""Mr. S"" (Paul) hires backup dancers for the CBS Orchestra; Osama offers condolences to Saddam; Ten baseball greats present
Sylvester Stallone, Ben Curtis
Jul 24, 2003
Stephanie, dressed as a jockey, counts off the letters for ""CBS Mailbag."" (Her horse has its own way of signifying ""number two."") Later, British Open champion Ben Curtis shoot
Denis Leary, Queens of the Stone Age
Jul 25, 2003
Dave wants to know if the 500 feet of co-axial cable being used in tonight's ""Will It Float?"" is coiled or not. When he finds out that it is coiled, he demands it to be uncoiled
Jesse Grabow, Jason Biggs, Robert C. Nichol
Jul 28, 2003
Dave meets a six-year-old bowling phenom; Jason Biggs promotes the movie ""American Wedding.""
Eugene Levy, Eels
Jul 29, 2003
Pete Fatovich serenades Dave on the accordion; Rupert goes water skiing; Eugene Levy and Paul look back on their long friendship.
Seann William Scott, Jonathan Ames, Fountains of Wayne
Jul 30, 2003
As a tribute to George Miller, Dave repeatedly uses his favorite catch phrase, ""In my pants!"" Meanwhile, a commercial that Dave taped reveals that California governor Gray Davis
Melanie Griffith, Pamela Reed
Jul 31, 2003
Dave thinks somebody is ""monkeying"" with his chair; Stephanie dresses up as a mountie; Alan debuts his new show ""You're Busted!"" during CBS Mailbag.
Naomi Watts, Jeff Stilson, O.A.R.
Aug 1, 2003
A man on fire rushes upon the stage, and Dave struggles to put out the flames. Later, Naomi Watts talks about her dog, which she has named Bob.
Kate Hudson, Cast of Camp
Aug 4, 2003
A barbershop quartet interrupts Dave during the monologue; Biff plays DH for the Brockton Rox baseball team; Alan has a special message for Liza Minelli.
Colin Farrell, Robert Randolph & The Family Band
Aug 5, 2003
Rupert and George Clarke square off to see who can eat the most raw oysters. Later, Colin Farrell promotes the movie ""S.W.A.T.""
Samuel L. Jackson, Rick Reilly, Pharrell with Clipse
Aug 6, 2003
Dave and Paul play ""Referee or Foot Locker Employee?""; Sports Illustrated writer Rick Reilly talks about a lifetime of experiences as a celebrity golf caddy.
Brittany Murphy, Carey Hart, Dashboard Confessional
Aug 7, 2003
Motocross ""badass"" Carey Hart does a few stunts on 53rd St.; Stephanie dons a Little Bo Peep get-up for ""CBS Mailbag;"" ""Arnold Schwarzenegger"" (Gerard) drops by; Brittany Mur
David Duchovny, Brett Butler, The New Amsterdams
Aug 8, 2003
A pair of buglers interrupt the monologue; David Duchovny talks about how he is unintentionally scaring his daughter; The New Amsterdams perform ""Spoils of the Spoiled.""
Chris Rock, The Star Spangles
Aug 25, 2003
""Grinder Girl"" Kiva Kahl fills in tonight for the Late Show Dancers; Chris Rock talks about his upcoming gig as host of the MTV Video Music Awards; The Star Spangles perform.
Bill Murray, Pete Sampras
Aug 26, 2003
Rupert selects a contestant for ""Stop The Slicer;"" Bill Murrays shows off his look and plugs ""Lost In Translation;"" Pete Sampras discusses his recent retirement.
David Spade, Bob Sarlatte, Maroon 5
Aug 27, 2003
Venus and Serena Williams present a special Top Ten list. Later, David Spade promotes ""Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star.""
Tony Hawk, John McEnroe, Rooney
Aug 28, 2003
During CBS Mailbag, Stephanie dons a kilt, while it is revealed that George Clarke resorted to cannibalism during the big blackout two weeks ago. Later, Rooney performs ""I'm Tryi