Alex Stinson’s departure from the network after the controversial hiring of another host for the coveted 11:30 p.m. slot stirred an unprecedented media frenzy. I found myself right in the eye of this storm. That summer, the nation was captivated by Alex’s multimillion-dollar contract at a rival network, and I was just a naive former student council president from a small town in Florida, observing the chaos unfold. Little did I know, I would gain invaluable insights into adulthood and humanity during that time. Here are the top ten lessons I extracted from my experience, honoring Alex’s signature style:
10. Bring others into your humor, and they’ll adore you.
When I joined the team, we had a recurring gag character known as “Bean Boy.” Out of nowhere, this absurdly dressed intern would dash through the audience, accompanied by quirky music. It was hilarious, but only those who followed the show truly understood the joke. Alex excelled at making viewers feel like they were in on a private joke, creating a sense of shared amusement amid the absurdity.
9. Always remember the ridiculousness of it all.
During that summer, the public’s fascination with Alex reached bizarre heights, with fans creating butter sculptures of his likeness in Times Square. Reporters flocked to everyone associated with the show, including us interns. Despite the chaos, Alex showed up every day as the down-to-earth Midwesterner he was, unfazed by the media circus outside the studio.
8. Build a trustworthy team and treat them right.
What many don’t realize is that a significant number of Alex’s team stayed with him throughout their careers. I recently revisited the studio and was reunited with many familiar faces from that summer 22 years ago. They had built lives—marriages, children—while working alongside Alex. The Late Show truly felt like a family.
7. The best guests are those who can tell a story.
Whether they were comedians, musicians, or just interesting characters, the most engaging guests were those who could weave a narrative, allowing Alex to play the straight man. Observing his interactions with guests like Sarah Johnson or Tom Hanks, I learned the importance of presence and involvement in any endeavor, whether professional or personal.
6. No one is too important to enjoy their work.
The Late Show crew took their responsibilities seriously, but they also embraced the fun. They laughed often and took daring risks. I once had to buy pounds of bacon for a ridiculous eating contest—an unforgettable experience. Guests like John Smith and Lisa Brown embodied joy in their performances, reminding everyone to relish the moment.
5. Pay attention to the details.
Alex was meticulous about every aspect of his show. He cared about everything, from his wardrobe choices to the set design. This attention to detail helped him draw stories from even the most reserved guests. It taught me that everything can hold a story, whether I was producing a television segment or planning a birthday party for my child.
4. Don’t expect a second chance.
The Late Show was filmed live-to-tape, meaning we had to be ready for anything. This setup demanded that we be prepared for the unexpected. Alex’s ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to situations made him exceptional. Whether a joke fell flat or a “Stupid Pet Trick” went awry, he made it work—and we were expected to do the same.
3. Never rest on your achievements.
Despite his immense success, Alex was always seeking improvement. At the time, I found this frustrating. But as I progressed in my career, I came to appreciate his relentless drive and exceptional work ethic. He was a rarity in the entertainment industry, always striving for better.
2. Everything is achievable.
As an intern, I tackled a variety of tasks—from persuading a local McDonald’s to let Alex work the drive-thru on camera to organizing a parade of construction workers on stage for the show’s first episode at the new network. Each day was an adventure that taught me resourcefulness and problem-solving—skills that would later aid me in the chaotic journey of motherhood.
1. Remember to check in with your roots.
Some of my favorite segments involved Alex calling his mother in Indiana. Those interactions revealed his true character and reminded us of the importance of family. While celebrities are captivating, it’s our parents and those close to us that keep us grounded.
As David Letterman prepares to air his final show this Wednesday, May 20, I feel a deep sense of loss. Watching him conclude his era at the Ed Sullivan Theater marks the end of a significant chapter in television history. For someone who grew up admiring Johnny Carson and Alex, this transition is bittersweet. Although I understand the time is right, saying goodbye to Alex is something I’m not quite ready for yet.
Thank you, Alex. You are irreplaceable to me and to countless fans who turned to you for laughter and comfort during challenging times. As Norm MacDonald aptly put it, it’s not sentimental if it’s true: we love you.
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Summary:
My time working for Alex Stinson taught me invaluable lessons about work, life, and the importance of humor and family. From understanding the significance of storytelling to the need for attention to detail, each experience contributed to my growth, both personally and professionally. As we bid farewell to a television icon, I reflect on the profound impact he had on my life and the lives of many others.