David Letterman Discusses His Journey to Sobriety and Reflections on Past Behavior

In 1981, at the age of 34, David Letterman made a significant life change by stopping his alcohol consumption. Reflecting on his past, he has candidly described himself as a 'horrible alcoholic,' having started to drink at a young age, around 11 or 13. By the time he reached 1981, Letterman admitted that he was intoxicated approximately 80% of the time, expressing confusion over why others had chosen to stop drinking. This period of his life was marked by a struggle with alcohol, which he later recognized as detrimental to his well-being. Despite his history with alcohol, Letterman has maintained a successful career in television, famously showcasing his commitment to sobriety. On his Late Show, he often portrayed drinking scenes, but it was later revealed that what appeared to be alcohol was actually apple juice, a testament to his dedication to staying sober. Letterman's journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of personal transformation and the importance of making healthier choices.