On July 28, 1987, actor Crispin Glover made headlines when he appeared on Late Night with David Letterman to promote his film River’s Edge. The encounter quickly became infamous, marked by Glover’s erratic behavior and a confrontation that led to Letterman walking off the set.
From the outset, it was evident that Glover was not prepared for a conventional interview. He appeared on stage wearing a wig and platform shoes, exhibiting signs of nervousness. Letterman initiated the conversation with standard questions, but Glover’s responses were disjointed and off-topic. Within minutes, he began discussing the media’s portrayal of him and pulled out newspaper clippings to read excerpts, further bewildering the audience.
As the interview progressed, Glover suggested an arm wrestling match, which Letterman declined. The situation escalated when Glover kicked in the direction of Letterman, narrowly missing him. This prompted the host to stand up and leave the set, stating he needed to check on the show’s “Top Ten” segment. Upon returning from a commercial break, Glover was no longer on stage, and Letterman explained to the audience, “I would’ve loved to have chatted more with Crispin Glover, but I understand he had a cab to catch. Traffic this time of night here in Midtown is pretty brutal.”
Glover’s unusual behavior sparked speculation among fans and critics alike. Some suggested he was channeling a character from his upcoming film Rubin & Ed, which would later receive a limited release in the United States. Despite the ensuing interest, Glover has remained tight-lipped about his motives during the interview. He humorously states in interviews, “I neither confirm nor deny that I was ever on the David Letterman show,” indicating a preference for mystery over clarification.
A few weeks after the initial incident, Glover made a second appearance on Late Night, which was equally unconventional. During this visit, he laughed and stuttered throughout the segment, offering no explanation for his prior behavior. This continued to fuel speculation regarding his state of mind and intentions.
The 1987 encounter remains a notable moment in late-night television history, illustrating the unpredictable nature of live interviews. While audiences might have been left confused, it showcased Glover’s unique approach to celebrity and performance. For those seeking a deeper understanding of his perspective, Glover suggests attending one of his live shows, where he elaborates on various topics, deliberately avoiding questions about his late-night appearances.
In retrospect, Crispin Glover’s appearance on David Letterman’s show serves as a reminder of the unpredictable dynamics between guests and hosts, particularly in the realm of entertainment. Whether it was a calculated performance or an uncontrolled moment, it undoubtedly left an indelible mark on television history.
