Letterman to Return, With Writers

Like colleagues Jay Leno and Conan O’Brien, David Letterman’s late-night talk show will return to the air Wednesday, but with an important difference: He will be supported by his usual writing staff, the New York Times reports. Letterman’s production company, not network CBS, owns his show, and secured an independent deal with the striking writers guild after two weeks of negotiations.

Craig Ferguson’s show, which follows Letterman's and is also owned by World Wide Pants, will return with writers as well. The shows will enjoy a twofold advantage over other late-nighters: Not only will they have scripted material the others lack, but they will be able to book guests who may balk at crossing picket lines to appear on the other programs.