42 - Joe Toplyn, author; former writer/producer for Leno, Letterman

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Four-time Emmy winner Joe Toplyn joins Art. Toplyn has been a writer for Late Night with David Letterman, head writer and producer for The Late Show with David Letterman, and co-head writer and producer for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has now authored a book called Comedy Writing for Late-Night TV.

The comedy writing legend candidly answers questions such as:

What was it like creating revolutionary TV in the early days of Late Night with David Letterman?
Did the "GE Handshake" bit really end Letterman's chances of getting The Tonight Show?
What famous Late Night  bit nearly suffocated a fellow writer?
How did Jay Leno turn the tables to become the new king of late night?
Is the late night talk show obsolete in the Internet age?

Mr. Toplyn also discusses his whirlwind months as head writer for the short-lived but infamous The Chevy Chase Show, and gives a few tips on how YOU can write funny! 1 hr. 24 mins.

Art's comments: "I hope there's a section in Mr. Toplyn's book about how to ask a question without lots of stammering. I need to read it. You should buy it, too, because this guy let me talk his ear off for two hours. In the end I think the key takeaway from this show is: Carbon dioxide is heavier than air. Now, won't you please enjoy a hot towel?"

Joe Toplyn links:

Comedy Writing for Late-Night TV  on Amazon
Joe Toplyn.com
Toplyn's résumé on IMDB.com
The PIT class sign up

Relevant video links:

GE Handshake
Larry "Bud" Melman and hot towels
Letterman talks about Cycle dog food on Tonight Show
Suit of Alka-Seltzer