Letterman marks 30 years on late-night TV

David Letterman in 2009

"It's certainly the most exciting hour of the day, and it's the only hour of the day I really care about."

The above comment, made by David Letterman in a 1994 interview, summed up his feelings at that time about his show, which had recently (in 1993) moved from NBC to CBS. It would be little surprise, though, if Letterman, who will turn 65 in April, still feels that way.

Last night, the late-night legend, who was born, raised, and started his television career in Indianapolis, celebrated his 30th anniversary on late-night TV. Feted by special guest Howard Stern and his staff, who hit Dave with their "Top Ten Things Staffers Would Like to Say to Dave on his 30th Anniversary in Late Night," the show was fun to watch.

Much has happened during Letterman's three decades capping Americans' nights, from his highly-publicized split with NBC in 1993, to his heart bypass operation in 2000 (which led to an emotional show in which he publicly thanked the medical professionals - "These are the people who saved my life!" - later earning an Emmy nomination), to his heartfelt response to the September 11 tragedy, and a darker moment in 2009 when he revealed that he had been the target of an extortion attempt.

Through it all, the host has stayed true to his Hoosier roots, continuing to support his alma mater, Ball State University, and racing at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway (it was Rahal Letterman Racing which brought Danica Patrick to prominence in auto racing, after all).

Happy Anniversary, Dave ... here's to many more years of late-night fun.