Don Rickles ignores, berates Letterman as a parting gift

Don Rickles ridicules Letterman — (Image credit: Late Show)

As David Letterman enters the final stretch of his career, most guests have been singing his praises (literally), or even taking off their clothes for him. Not Don Rickles. From the moment Letterman gushingly introduced the 89-year-old comedy legend, Rickles was intent on talking to Letterman's other guest, Howard Stern. "What the hell was that?" Letterman finally asked after Rickles went on about how wonderful Stern is. "Shut up," Rickles replied. "I'll get to you." But he was only getting started. Stern — who, in all fairness, tried to kiss Letterman earlier in the show — joined in. I guess if they make you too comfortable, you might want to stay. So, enjoy Montana, Dave. —Peter Weber

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516.jpg

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Explore More

Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.