NBC is talking an even bigger gamble. The result is a laudable, if somewhat erratic, TV departure. Also burnt cauliflower.
Rails sees conspiracies everywhere.
It is host Letterman, however, who keeps things percolating with his easy blend of boyish charm and trigger-quick ad libs. With his 30 guest-host gigs, Letterman was touted as the top contender to replace Carson permanently until Johnny agreed to stay for three more years. Both Carson and Letterman possess the same effortless wit, but David seems closer to his audience. Roaming the house with his mike last week, he playfully asked a burly visitor from Texas to go out for some coffee. Sure enough, one hour later, the guy happily returned with a full tray, receiving applause and a tip from Letterman.