Howard Stern Backs David Letterman in the New Late Night Talk Show War

The "King of All Media," Howard Stern, made a triumphant return to the late night talk show circuit on Monday with an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman. Howard Stern talked about the downfall of terrestrial radio, called Rush Limbaugh a "big bloated turd," and showed exclusive pictures from his wedding to model Beth Ostrosky last fall. No matter what the topic David Letterman brought up, though, Howard Stern kept bringing the conversation back to one thing. "We gotta beat this Conan," he said. "I'll do anything you want as long as we beat Conan."

Howard Stern then launched into a straight out slam of The Tonight Show's former host, Jay Leno:

"I didn't like Jay," Howard Stern said bluntly. "I never liked Jay. I can't STAND Jay. I've never seen anybody who behaves like a robot like this guy."

Howard Stern has openly criticized Jay Leno in the past for his lack of originality and relevance to popular culture. Howard Stern also regularly points out bits and sketches that he feels Leno has stolen directly from his show. Many were surprised when Jay Leno made an aggressive move to woo Howard Stern Show Wack Pack Member Stuttering John to The Tonight Show as the official announcer. Now that The Tonight Show has been bestowed upon quirky, pale-faced Conan O'Brien, Jay Leno is moving to a ten o'clock time slot on NBC in the fall.

Jay Leno has consistently beat David Letterman in the late night talk show ratings. During his interview, Howard Stern expressed that those behind the scenes at The Late Show are hoping that his appearance can put their show ahead of The Tonight Show for the first time in years. With Conan O'Brien still gaining his sea legs interviewing vapid L.A. movie stars an hour earlier than he's used to, David Letterman has a chance to pick up some of Jay Leno's audience. An appearance by Howard Stern has been known to push David Letterman's ratings over the top even during Leno's reign.

While Howard Stern stated that he felt Conan O'Brien "seemed like a nice guy," he revved up the crowed at The Late Show by pointing at Letterman and proclaiming: "THIS is the man we want to see!!!" to thunderous applause.
Howard Stern was the only guest to appear on The Late Show on Monday night. Stern appeared for three segments and was followed by he musical guest Mos Def.