How Late Night TV Came Back After 9/11

Following the tragic day our country will never forget, late-night television shows Late Show with David Letterman, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with Conan O’Brien all struggled with how to return to the airwaves, and how to address the 9/11 attacks and still be funny.

Following the events of September 11, 2001, most couldn’t find the right words to address the situation, but despite this challenge, all the late-night shows had the hardest obstacle to make our country smile during such a somber time.

Below are the opening monologues late show hosts gave following 9/11/2001.

• Late Show with David Letterman

  Letterman was the first comedian to return to air after the attack, and his opening monologue inspired the country; it’s now considered a legendary moment in talk show history. Letterman said in the closing, “If you didn’t believe it before, you can absolutely believe it now: New York City is the greatest city in the world.”

  David Letterman 9/11 Monologue

  This speech, inspired the country and became an acclaimed moment of talk-show history. The New York Daily News called it "one of the purest, most honest and ...

• Late Night with Conan O'Brien

  In an effort to lift spirits, Conan wanted to include something at the top of the show that had nothing to do with anything at all — with a baby attempting to lift two 6-packs of beer.

• The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

  Jon Stewart broke down in tears during his opening monologue, “I want to tell you why I grieve, but why I don’t despair,” he said. “The reason I don’t despair is because this attack happened. It’s not a dream, but the aftermath of it — the recovery, is a dream realized.” He spoke about how people were judging others not by the color of their skin, but the contents of their heart during the emotional opening.

  September 11, 2001 - The Daily Show with Jon Stewart | Comedy Central US

  Jon discusses the events of September 11, 2001, and shares his thoughts on New York City's future.