But so it has. Letterman's first show in the renamed Ed Sullivan Theatre in New York City was on Aug. 30, 1993.His guests that night included Billy Joel, Tom Brokaw and Bill Murray.
And a surprise guest in the audience — Paul Newman.
I've read many tributes to Newman since his death on Sept. 26, but I haven't read or heard any recollections about that night in 1993.
It was so natural, so plausible.
After being "introduced" from the audience by a film clip of Ed Sullivan, Newman asked Letterman, "Where the hell's the singing cats?"
Apparently, Newman was referring to the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical "Cats," which had been a hit in England and on Broadway for more than a decade.
"No, Paul, this isn't 'Cats,'" Letterman replied. "It's me, Dave Letterman. This is my new show from the Ed Sullivan Theatre."
Newman looked at his ticket stub, then said, "Oops, sorry, wrong theatre," and walked out while the audience cheered.
Newman's home was in Westport, Conn., which is about 45 miles from New York City. It certainly wouldn't be hard to imagine him driving to New York to take in a popular show.
But I don't recall seeing anyone — even his wife, Joanne Woodward — with him in the audience.
Nevertheless, I hope he found those cats.
