David Letterman and Adam Sandler Celebrate Comedy Legacy on Netflix

David Letterman and Adam Sandler come together in a special episode of *My Next Guest Needs No Introduction*, exploring Sandler’s remarkable journey from stand-up comedian to Hollywood star. The episode, which features interviews conducted both in front of an audience at New York University and backstage at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, showcases the deep admiration and camaraderie between the two comedy legends.

The episode opens with a sweeping shot of the empty arena at Mohegan Sun, where Sandler was set to perform earlier this year. The conversation unfolds in a non-linear format, as Letterman interviews Sandler before and after his gig, seamlessly transitioning between the two venues. Throughout their dialogue, Letterman lavishes praise on Sandler, who, in turn, expresses his reverence for Letterman, declaring, “you’re our hero” to the comedy icon.

The interview begins with a nostalgic look back at Sandler’s childhood, starting with his father purchasing a Fender Stratocaster for him at the age of twelve. This guitar remains a staple in Sandler’s performances today. He recounts his early experiences in stand-up, including a less-than-stellar first gig that left him “devastatingly bad.” Despite this, Sandler held high expectations for himself, boldly claiming to friends in New Hampshire that he would one day reach the heights of Eddie Murphy.

Another significant moment in the episode reveals Sandler’s college years at New York University, where he became roommates with Tim Herlihy, who would later co-write many of Sandler’s films. Sandler recalls how Herlihy began crafting jokes for him shortly after they met.

At Mohegan Sun, Sandler shares his pre-show rituals, which include playing pickup basketball. He reminisces about his last performance with the late Norm Macdonald in 2016 and his first appearance on Letterman’s show in 1991. Clips from that debut performance highlight his early comedic style and serve as a poignant reminder of his growth over the years.

The conversation also touches on Sandler’s more dramatic roles in films like *Punch-Drunk Love* and *Uncut Gems*. Letterman advocates for the Academy Awards to recognize outstanding performances that have been overlooked, specifically mentioning Sandler’s work. Their banter includes reflections on the recent Mark Twain Prize ceremony, where they both participated in honoring Conan O’Brien.

While the episode offers engaging insights into Sandler’s career, some viewers may find its structure disjointed. Letterman’s tendency to shift topics occasionally detracts from the flow of the conversation, as he brings attention to Sandler’s Netflix projects, such as *Happy Gilmore 2* and the upcoming *Jay Kelly*. This promotional aspect may feel jarring to those hoping for a deeper exploration of Sandler’s artistic journey.

Despite these structural critiques, the episode remains a valuable watch for fans, particularly for the anecdotes Sandler shares about his early days in comedy. Ultimately, it is a celebration of the enduring friendship and mutual respect between two titans of the entertainment industry.

For those interested in a blend of personal stories and comedic history, this episode is worth streaming. It provides a glimpse into the lives of two influential figures while also highlighting the evolution of comedy over the decades.