Alan Kalter, longtime 'Late Show with David Letterman' announcer, dead at 78

Alan Kalter, the announcer who introduced David Letterman for most of his run on “The Late Show,” has died. He was 78.

Kalter’s wife, Peggy, confirmed the news of his death to The Hollywood Reporter, noting that he died at Stamford Hospital in Connecticut. Meanwhile, Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Connecticut’s Temple Beth El also confirmed he died in a statement to Deadline. 

The red-headed humorist was perhaps best known for his distinctive voice, which he would use to not only cheekily introduce Letterman every night but his guests as well. In addition, he would frequently participate in comedy sketches such as "Alan Kalter’s Celebrity Interview" after Letterman was finished interviewing his guests. Deadline notes the fan-favorite would also use his droll humor to feign anger or bitterness at the host, dropping expletives that were bleeped out and forcing the host to act as though his own show had gone off the rails.