David Letterman’s Million Dollar Advice to Jerry Seinfeld Before Making His Blockbuster Hit Sitcom is Why He’s the King of Comedy
Jerry Seinfeld, the famous comedian known for his witty observations, credits David Letterman for giving him the single best piece of advice for his career. The TV-show host and Seinfeld have a friendly relationship. The 70-year-old has been on Letterman’s shows many times over the years, both when he was starting out in comedy and after Seinfeld became a hit.
Seinfeld’s iconic titular sitcom almost never existed. Before the show became a cultural phenomenon, he pitched the pilot to NBC. But with self-doubt creeping in, the Brooklyn native confided in late-night legend David Letterman. His advice was the key to the show’s lasting success and solidified the Unfrosted star’s reputation as the ‘King of Comedy.’
David Letterman’s Advice Propelled Jerry Seinfeld to Success
In an interview with Neal Brennan, Jerry Seinfeld himself revealed a life-changing anecdote. While attending a holiday party hosted by David Letterman, the stand-up comedian mentioned he was working on a pilot for NBC. Letterman’s response was a turning point to him: “just make sure you fail doing exactly what you want to do.” This resonated with Seinfeld. He continued:
“He told me that and that’s the best advice you can give someone going into a big scary project. When it’s someone else’s idea that kills you that’s hard to live with.”
By following his own comedic instincts, rather than chasing fads or network expectations, Seinfeld was able to create a show that focused on the small details of everyday life. This idea was seen as risky back then, but it turned out to be a smart move.
Seinfeld became a runaway hit, lauded for its originality and relatable humor that resonated with everyone. Letterman’s advice really clicked with the comedian. Obviously, one would rather have a unique, personal project that doesn’t resonate with everyone, than a bland, generic one that flops because it lacks heart.
David Letterman’s Vision Extends Beyond Mere Advice
David Letterman participated in a panel discussion at the New Yorker Festival in 2016. The discussion covered Letterman’s long career, how his comedy has influenced people, and what’s next for late-night TV. The now 77-year-old believes late-night TV should head in a different direction. He said (via Vulture), “There’s so many late-night shows… I think I would be happy to watch a woman.”
While admitting he no longer stays up for late-night shows, the Indianapolis native did voice his appreciation for Samantha Bee’s success as a late-night host and commentator. Letterman previously voiced his disappointment that CBS didn’t select a woman as his successor on The Late Show. He commented on the late-night host lineup dominated by men, saying, “You’ve got two Jimmies and a Stephen, I don’t know.”
Watch Seinfeld on Netflix.
