When David Letterman Showed Unexpected Compassion to Billie Eilish Due To Her Tourette’s Tic

David Letterman‘s Netflix show, My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, reveals a softer side of the comedian, and his 2022 conversation with Billie Eilish perfectly illustrates this. During the interview, Eilish unexpectedly began twitching, which appeared to surprise Letterman.

Instead of dismissing the moment, the show’s host responded with understanding and kindness. While talking about Billie Eilish’s success at the Oscars, she unexpectedly experienced a tic linked to Tourette’s syndrome, a condition she’s lived with since she was a child. Here’s how their conversation continued:

Letterman: “What’s going on? The fly?”

Eilish: “No, I’m ticking.”

Letterman: “I’m sorry, did that bring that on?”

Eilish: “The lights.”

Letterman: “Really?”

Eilish: “Yeah.”

Letterman: “Wow.”

Eilish: “If you film me for long enough you’re gonna see lots of ticks.”

Letterman: “Is that OK or not OK?”

Eilish: “I don’t care.”

Letterman: “Can I ask you anything about them?”

Billie Eilish explained, “It’s strange because I haven’t mentioned this before, but most people laugh when I do. They assume I’m joking.”

Letterman thanked Billie Eilish for having him on her show, saying he was grateful to be included. Eilish responded by thanking him for asking about her experiences and shared that she was happy to discuss Tourette’s syndrome. Viewers on Netflix noted how respectful Letterman was of her neurological condition, and many found it refreshing.

This Letterman was unlike the one most people remembered – the guy who playfully roasted guests like Joaquin Phoenix during that infamous 2009 interview, or who tried to charm his female guests. He wasn’t focused on entertaining the audience or getting an easy laugh. He seemed truly interested in the person he was talking to and genuinely cared about their well-being.

David Letterman Reinvented Himself With His Netflix Show

As late-night talk shows become less popular, the once famously sharp-tongued comedian has transformed into a warm and relatable interviewer for the streaming world. His more relaxed, slightly scruffy look on My Next Guest Needs No Introduction perfectly matches the comfortable feel of his interviews with big-name celebrities. He’s really reinvented himself.

The show’s cozy setup – Letterman interviewing people in their own homes – allows him to be more relaxed and gentle with his questions. He’s still sharp and witty, but he’s toned down the sarcastic edge he was known for, and that works well in this setting.

My Next Guest Needs No Introduction Is A Must-See For Letterman Fans

Fans who have watched Letterman for years will be impressed by how well he’s transitioned to his new show on Netflix. He’s changed a lot since his early days – particularly compared to the controversial interview with Madonna decades ago, when he often playfully challenged his guests.

David Letterman remains a fantastic interviewer, but his show, My Next Guest Needs No Introduction, is different from his late-night format. He lets his guests lead the conversation from their own homes, and he skillfully guides them through it. It’s definitely worth checking out.

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2026-01-28 01:39