I thought from the title and thumbnail that this was gonna be another funny moments compilation. I didn't expect such a well-edited story about these two. "Best of the best," indeed.
The way Letterman openly conceded to Norm's superior intellect and how Norm responded with humble reverence to Dave's legacy encapsulated the rarest element of masculinity in modern society, let alone in the entertainment world -- vulnerable love earned by reciprocation.
I agree, Norm's expression of love for Dave, spoken sincerely, is virtually without precedence on TV, let alone from one man to another. My youngest brother taught me to do that and I'm a better man because of it. If only the world could welcome genuine feelings of affection between men as much as dominant behavior...
@@plane_guy6051 how in the world are you possibly triggered or offended by this comment? That being said, why in the hell am I triggered by YOUR comment. Meh...nevermind
well at that point he had been fighting cancer for 6 or so years already, so definitely even more awesome for us in hindsight. Norm is just tubular as one could be!
Now we have late night shows angrily ranting about trump. I will just continue re-watching Norm clips until something funny turns up again. Could take a while.
Wow, Great Compilation! I’m dealing with the same disease Norm did - Multiple Myeloma cancer and it just wipes me out. He handled it with such grace and went out on his own terms, I hope to do half as well!
And that’s okay. I never met my grandpa, but still grieved his loss. Never met Kobe…or the Crocodile Hunter but still wept upon learning of their passing. It’s bc you realize that the world lost something special and it’s also the knowledge that you’ll never get to tell that person what they meant/mean to you. This group of Norm fans have been some of the coolest ppl I’ve spoken to and I don’t think you need to meet someone to be impacted or influenced by.
I've been having a hard time figuring out why Norm's passing has hit me so freaking hard. I've come to the realization Norm had both an original mind AND the courage to voice it unapologetically yet eloquently; a rare combination that looks to be going extinct. Add to that, his ability and willingness to bring people joy and make them smile and you've got the type of man whose absence leaves a tremendous void.
@@danielhaney9992 I think it’s also the suddenness of the passing. And anybody who has/can make you laugh will always be special. It also seemed like he was becoming an even greater/genuine person towards the end of his life so I think it’s fair to be pisses off when God takes somebody when they seem to be becoming the best version of their self. I’d say the same thing about Kobe and all of the good he was doing/had done. It feels cruel to take them at that point in their life…..we’re also realizing sure there’s other comics but Norm was just different. We also thought we had more time with him….I full anticipated seeing him live after the pandemic, but I had the same sorta shock and flabbergasted feeing when John Pinette passed. Right as he has was getting his weight down and touring again….
It just occurred to me - I’m a dense dumbass apparently- that Dave realized that his own standup was ok, when he started, but not great, and then he went on his awesome path. Best late night host ever. On that path, he met Norm, and realized that Norm was the standup version of himself that he wanted to be back in the day. What he aspired to be originally. Two great comics who where great at their style. Love both of these guys.
This video is a labor of love. I cannot imagine the countless hours it took to compile this funny, moving, beautiful tribute to two wonderful entertainers, one of whom was gone way too soon.
For all Norm fans, and for all Dave fans, and there are millions and millions of us, this video is massive, huge. It shows how great they BOTH are. I think about the hundreds and thousands of hours I've watched both of them, what they mean to me, what they mean to each other, and it all has great meaning. Thank you on behalf of us all.
Thank you, I'm glad so many people are appreciating it. I grew up watching Dave, someone hard to get close to in person. Watching all this Norm stuff I saw a narrative unfolding, a growing mutual respect and love between them. I didn't realise they'd got closer after Dave retired. The look on Norm's face when his feelings for Dave were reciprocated, on his own show, says it all. I love the idea that Norm eventually found a friend and confidante in Dave.
What great love and respect they had for each other. Thank you for providing this compilation of two great modest talented comedians. I hate that Norm is no longer on this planet! I really miss him, such an original person, not just a comedian but a lovely genuine person, God bless him!
@@chauncyquest2779 I love comedians. And these three are my tops. The night Robin Williams died, I had a dream where my wife and I saw him at a cafe/grill place we were all seated at. He waved sheepishly to not bring attention. I’d forgotten about the dream until I got back home from work and saw his face on the TV screen, telling us he was gone. What a world.
Man I find their relationship so charming and special. You can see mutual respect between the two. Rare to see Norm speechless when Letterman praises him. Still miss Norm
What’s crazy is watching Norm get older and older and Letterman staying the same age. It was like watching a son grow up and become a peer of his father.
Did we see the same video? Letterman looked like Methhead Mark Twain by the end 🤣. I think Norm kept Letterman's comedic spirit alive, it was stunning to watch them over the years...and of course tragic to have lost Norm so suddenly, and far too quickly.
Well done! One of my favorites Norm-Dave moments: Norm: I hope you do have a child one day Dave: I hope he turns out just like you! The biggest compliment one could get.
It would be great for the editor of this video to put that one in. Classic. This video is already the best, but if that interaction were spliced in right after Norm calls him a father figure at the 4:40 mark... it would be perfect, more perfect.
@@littlelaker I agree, every time I see that exchange it catches my attention. If you didn’t know how they felt about one another you might assume it was part of the witty banter and didn’t mean anything. But knowing the mutual respect and all the support Letterman gave to Norm, you just know he meant it. It’s just a beautiful little moment where Norm gets some well deserved praise.❤️
In the early 90s, before his SNL days, I saw Norm on a cheesy comedy special with a bunch of great comics and had taped it and memorised his set, it was so brilliant. He was booked to headline the comedy club where I worked in Chicago, and not even the owner who booked him had seen him before, just booked via some booking agent. But I was thrilled, and saw every single set, and got to spend the week hanging with Norm, and he was probably the only genuinely decent person I met in 3 years of working there. It's very surreal to see the arc of his life and career from this end now. Back then, no one I knew in the standup world paid any attention to him. They'd all deny that now, lol. But of all the people I saw back then who made it big, his success was the one that made me giddy. It took a long time but he deserves all the admiration.
I got to spend a week with him, before his SNL days when he was a touring club comic. He was kind, considerate, and the funniest human I've ever met, and I spent years working comedy clubs and 15+ in Hollywood. No one else has been that naturally funny and genuinely kind.
Man the love David letterman had for Norm it's so touching emotional and heartwarming seeing Dave praise Norm which he isn't known for praising people it brings tears to my eyes.
I love seeing Letterman glow up Norm to his face on the podcast. You know that meant the absolute world to him with everything he was going through at the time, and it must've been surreal having his hero tell him HE'S the best of the best. Wish Norm could've had several more years with us, but I hope he knew he was loved, appreciated, and respected by both the greats of comedy/showbiz and complete strangers alike.
It's crazy but I loved all three of them too. My absolute favorites. And you can see Conan and Norm as kind of brothers and Dave as kind of a father figure to them both actually. Dave was very protective of Norm and Conan when they dealt with Bs at NBC.
Not at all what I was expecting. I never thought I'd almost shed a tear watching Norm and David other than crying from laughter. Superb video of these two legends of laugh.
Sola174, This is hands down one of the best..., the fact that you did it and did it so fucking well, I'm so thoroughly impressed and off the charts appreciative. Thank you. Well F------- done! I share it sparingly. My two favorites who not everybody always gets. Bless you. Sola174. Nice job!
This is the best Tribute I have seen of Norm. I have watched everything of Norm for the last three or four years. This and Bob Saget’s personal tribute are the best. Big words from the greatest late night show funny man David Letterman. These two were the best. Letterman didn’t give praise unless he meant it. This was beautiful!!! Thanks
So I have always felt strangely connected to Norm. Im 43, born Oct. 17. I became obsessed with watching Norm about 7 years ago...like obsessed. My wife noticed and bought me his book. I was so moved. Especially when I opened the book and the first lines revealed that Norms birthday was Oct. 17th. I cried reading that for some reason it really moved me. This video is the first time Ive seen Norms first appearance on Letterman, a monumental moment for him, and by extension, me. I also noticed that the other guest that fateful night was George Wendt...who I happen to know, through many years of Radio DJ's pronouncement on our birthday...was also born on Oct. 17th. I dont believe I have to tell you the name of the character George Wendt iconized on Cheers...Norm, of course. Sometimes, whatever God is, has a sublime comedic timing. Norm was that...walking among us, eating Count Chocula. I miss him.
Almost every comment here is good, but yours is truly amazing. But I must tell you that my birthday is 2 months and 2 days earlier, so I’m just a voyeur.
I just did. Right after Norm left us behind, I was binge watching everything Norm. I got to the point where I couldn't take anymore, then I stumbled on this video and the floodgates opened. RIP Norm, I didn't even know you were sick!😭
I've rewatched this an unhealthy and countless number of times. One of my favourite compilations of Norm I've ever seen (and I've seen them all). Bravo! A perfect tribute to the undisputed GOAT of comedy.
**Thank you all for the 1M views!** ,for your appreciation, and feedback. I've been staggered and very moved by your comments. I hope I haven't intensified anyone's grief but rather their love and gratitude. To Norm and Dave. ☺️🙏❤️
It took me more time than the length of this video just to make an attempt at articulating how impactful it was to me. I can't. Instead, may I simply say, with all sincerity, thank you.
Well all the comments are well-deserved. My co-host and I consider ourselves to be among the elite when it comes to Norm fans and aficionados. We have a full episode of our podcast queued up that is dedicated to Norm and what most people miss about him as a person and his comedy. After scouring the internet and locating every clip of Norm to use as reference material we have a good collection to draw from. This video stands on its own as the finest piece of art dedicated to a singular topic “Norm & Letterman” This video should be, and will eventually, (I know we will do our part to promote/share it on our show) garner the millions of views it rightly deserves and will bring the joy and tears to all the fans of “the Only” Norm and Letterman that are out there who have yet to be moved by this labor of love you have created. On behalf of all fans of Norm and Letterman. We are and will be eternally grateful. GL
Norm's personality and his very particular way of being makes it very difficult to think that he is no longer with us. His comedy specials and all those memorable appearances on all kinds of shows keep him as alive and relevant as ever!
I grew up watching Letterman, and loved his late night show. As a kid I never understood Norms humor. It wasn't until my early 30's that I started to really appreciate Norm's masterful approach to comedy. Thank you for this video.
A lot of people enjoy Norm's work but Letterman actually really "got" him. The fact that he realized, Norm's persona is a big part of his act just underlines this - usually people mistake this with him being weird. They are both outliers because they are both very intelligent and humble, which is fairly rare in show business. I hope you are less sad now, because I know I am. Thank you for this.
I don’t think this is entirely correct. I think Dave knew that Norm was just a gifted guy and that his persona and the man were inextricably intertwined unlike a lot of stage comedians who are someone different on and off the stage. He repeatedly implies that norm is simply norm at all times and he has what a lot of pros work extremely hard to cultivate naturally.
A personal gives a comic access to certain material, yep Dave saw the Norm act early on and got it. Took me 30 years to see Norm out of caricature, he sells the simple man so well.
Good grief...why?? why did I have to stumble across this today? Why am I crying like a baby? WHY is Norm no longer with us? Lost Norm in Sept, my dad in Dec. My dad and I used to repeat Norm bits to each other. What an amazing video. Aweseome, awesome work, thank you.
I'm Canadian & older than norm & watched him through the years. Hurt when he passed. This particular vid made my eyes well up. I thank you for doing this from my heart.
Awesome! When I was a kid growing up, I couldn't wait for Carson to go off so I could watch Letterman! Still to this day I know in my heart that he was the best there was!
one of the greatest things to me about Norm was how genuine he was, with his friendships and his feelings and how life was to him. the way he was so honest about how he felt towards David Letterman, or Bob Saget (rest in peace), and all of his friends is so precious. I remember listening to Saget's video about Norm shortly after he had passed, and just being so awestruck at how open and vulnerable they were with each other. "One of the gifts of my life is that he loved me." Letterman was very close to Norm as well, and you can really see it in how he praises him and how he opens up his thoughts to tell Norm the genuine truth. "I wish I was as smart as you." There is something so magical about these men. The way they were so open and willing to admit that they loved Norm, and that Norm was completely transparent in how much he loved them, too. It's incredibly powerful. I love these men, and I hope to forge friendships as deep and precious as they have. And if you haven't yet, I hope you do, too ❤
What a great job you did putting this together. Norm's admiration of David Letterman; and Dave's reciprocal admiration, is the best story in all of comedy.
Norm was such a class act. Everything except his stories are genuine lol but he tells them in such a way that only Norm can do. He'll be missed more than he could have ever imagined. RIP Norm Macdonald, you were a gentleman and a scholar.
He was great so long as he wasn't doing material. His material was trash. I actually enjoyed seeing him for once not doing material with Letterman. Every other place I saw him, he was always so contrived and in-character
@@SobridMusic I do. I don't know why some of you people have such a hard time when it's pointed out that Norm's material sucked. He was great off material though. Lovely guy. Also when doing someone else's material like in SNL
@@zacharywhite211 do you know exactly which exact lines were his on SNL and which one's were written by somebody else? Seems like a lot of dedication towards someone you don't like.
Came here for a laugh - and the german joke specifically - from the only entertainer that ever made me give a shit about them. My favorite entertainer ever. Genuine mad man with a heart of gold and supreme ethics/morals when it came down to real life. Norm. Got a massive cry as well. Brilliant editing. Miss that dude every day.
Norm was, is and always will be, the very incarnation of funny. It would be impossible for him to not be funny. It would be like water not being wet or the sun not being bright. It is a brand of funny that houses a wonderful brilliance, sweetness, love & kindness. I miss him every day.
@Sola174, thank you for this. I feel the same as you, and I miss Norm every single day. I loved Norm. He is absolutely my favorite comedian of all times, and it was always my dream to meet him and just tell him thank you. Obviously that won't happen. This is a fantastic compilation, and I very much appreciate you making it.
The love and respect that these two men had for each other was extraordinary. They were both so humble and geniunely in awe of each other's talent. This video is a wonderful tribute to them both ... a gift to the world. Thank you! 👏💖👏💖👏💖
I really appreciated this post! Norm Mc Donald was one of a kind! He took chances that I think few people ever really dared to take. People that dislike him really don’t know what kind of guy he really was. I’ve read somewhere that he is a comedian’s comedian and you can’t get much higher praise that! I’m glad David Letterman was someone that Norm looked up to because he was a good dude and still is a good dude. David was also responsible for keeping Craig Ferguson on TV for as long as he was! So he knew talent. Norm will never be duplicated! Few geniuses ever are! Thanks i
I feel like Letterman is saying “hey, you’d be a great talk show host” and norm (of course) is going “ohh nooo noo” What a great (and unexpected) tribute. I also was expecting a compilation
Brilliant retrospective of Norm , well chosen clips with his idol Letterman & just so carefully & well put together .. a fitting tribute to a great performer.that we already miss.
I have been waiting for someone to pay tribute to the beautiful relationship these two incredible men shared. This went far above my expectations. Thank you for all the time and effort you obviously put into this masterpiece. I’m sure I’ll watch it over and over again.💕
Both of those guys are 2 of my favorites. It was touching to see the softer side of Norm , he was so irreverent about everything I would have never believed it if I hadn't seen it. RIP Norm.
So moving & real from Norm. Their friendship & comedic genius & timing stayed with them for a long time. Beyond & into the universe. Miss Norm on David Letterman. Best guest ever. 🙏💙
This video is so sweet. Dave and Norm and their beautiful friendship. The goodbye to Dave was really one of the sweetest moments in the history of television.
What a beautiful era in the history of our lives...I'm so glad that I grew up with Johnny Carson, Dave Letterman, and Norm Macdonald...just to mention a few. Time is flying. Rest In Peace, Norm...Thanks for the entertainment.
I thought from the title and thumbnail that this was gonna be another funny moments compilation. I didn't expect such a well-edited story about these two. "Best of the best," indeed.
here's Norm MAC-Donald, Norm..
Def not a "im not norm" video
Indeed!
They certainly are, and always will be.
Me, too.
The way Letterman openly conceded to Norm's superior intellect and how Norm responded with humble reverence to Dave's legacy encapsulated the rarest element of masculinity in modern society, let alone in the entertainment world -- vulnerable love earned by reciprocation.
Amen. Beautifully articulated.
I agree, Norm's expression of love for Dave, spoken sincerely, is virtually without precedence on TV, let alone from one man to another. My youngest brother taught me to do that and I'm a better man because of it. If only the world could welcome genuine feelings of affection between men as much as dominant behavior...
I love this video and I agree... beautiful coment, very caring friends they were
This comment was a treat to read.
@@distantandvague Thank you Brando, that's nice of you to say.
Letterman saw something magical in Norm before any of us did.
Us? Do you work in the industry?
You guys are taking this guys response too literally. He clearly is just trying to say that Letterman was ahead of the uptake on Norms popularity
@@biggusdickus1689 amazing that the only sensible guy here has this name
@@DownloadEvony lol i needed that one thanks bro
@@plane_guy6051 how in the world are you possibly triggered or offended by this comment? That being said, why in the hell am I triggered by YOUR comment. Meh...nevermind
@9:25 The look on Norm's face when David calls him the best of the best, you can see the emotion. He's being honored by his idol and he is floored.
Yeah it’s the peak of the video for sure. Human emotion at its finest.
It’s almost like he took a punch in the gut but good
@@samsungtelevision695 that's a perfect description
He can't look Dave in the eyes because he would cry😶
well at that point he had been fighting cancer for 6 or so years already, so definitely even more awesome for us in hindsight. Norm is just tubular as one could be!
Norm's heartfelt goodbye to Dave is the sweetest moment ever in late night TV. I miss Dave and Norm both.
Because it was real. And we’re living in a world where people are anything but
Speak for yourself, please,@@markbtv11.
Now we have late night shows angrily ranting about trump. I will just continue re-watching Norm clips until something funny turns up again. Could take a while.
@@Dennis-555, now we have TH-cam commenters angrily ranting about late night talk shows… I don’t know what I’m gonna do.
@@jimreadey4837 Spotify?
Wow, Great Compilation! I’m dealing with the same disease Norm did - Multiple Myeloma cancer and it just wipes me out. He handled it with such grace and went out on his own terms, I hope to do half as well!
I believe you have been able to.
I didn't even know Norm was sick!
sending positive hopes and wishes to you Sir
@@andrewthomas891 He didn’t tell many, and with this type you often “look good”. Thanks for the “vibes”.
Hey! Glad you’re still around:)
Hope you are doing better now friend
I miss a bloke who by any definition is a stranger. But I still miss him.
And that’s okay.
I never met my grandpa, but still grieved his loss.
Never met Kobe…or the Crocodile Hunter but still wept upon learning of their passing.
It’s bc you realize that the world lost something special and it’s also the knowledge that you’ll never get to tell that person what they meant/mean to you.
This group of Norm fans have been some of the coolest ppl I’ve spoken to and I don’t think you need to meet someone to be impacted or influenced by.
@@fightclub6291 very well said and I couldn't agree more about Norm fans.
I've been having a hard time figuring out why Norm's passing has hit me so freaking hard. I've come to the realization Norm had both an original mind AND the courage to voice it unapologetically yet eloquently; a rare combination that looks to be going extinct. Add to that, his ability and willingness to bring people joy and make them smile and you've got the type of man whose absence leaves a tremendous void.
@@danielhaney9992 I think it’s also the suddenness of the passing.
And anybody who has/can make you laugh will always be special. It also seemed like he was becoming an even greater/genuine person towards the end of his life so I think it’s fair to be pisses off when God takes somebody when they seem to be becoming the best version of their self. I’d say the same thing about Kobe and all of the good he was doing/had done.
It feels cruel to take them at that point in their life…..we’re also realizing sure there’s other comics but Norm was just different.
We also thought we had more time with him….I full anticipated seeing him live after the pandemic, but I had the same sorta shock and flabbergasted feeing when John Pinette passed. Right as he has was getting his weight down and touring again….
When my dad died I didn't cry.
When Norm died, I bawled my eyes out.
It just occurred to me - I’m a dense dumbass apparently- that Dave realized that his own standup was ok, when he started, but not great, and then he went on his awesome path. Best late night host ever.
On that path, he met Norm, and realized that Norm was the standup version of himself that he wanted to be back in the day. What he aspired to be originally. Two great comics who where great at their style.
Love both of these guys.
Very astute observation which I completely believe as well. You can see it on their faces at times.
That’s a profound analogy. Thanks for getting me thinking about them again!
Johnny carson was the greatest late night host
@@ryanramel604 You are commenting on the wrong video.😊
Letterman Gabe me the Will to live.
This is one of the most beautifully edited pieces I've ever seen on TH-cam
Glad I’m not the only one. At first I was like damn what’s up with me today? Crying and laughing. Beautiful.
@@mikemcpherson2470 absolutely beautiful, from start to finish. Wow.
Yes indeed
Yes, agree ! It took some beating". Wow. 🙂👍👍⭐⭐
This video is a labor of love. I cannot imagine the countless hours it took to compile this funny, moving, beautiful tribute to two wonderful entertainers, one of whom was gone way too soon.
For all Norm fans, and for all Dave fans, and there are millions and millions of us, this video is massive, huge. It shows how great they BOTH are. I think about the hundreds and thousands of hours I've watched both of them, what they mean to me, what they mean to each other, and it all has great meaning. Thank you on behalf of us all.
Thank you, I'm glad so many people are appreciating it. I grew up watching Dave, someone hard to get close to in person. Watching all this Norm stuff I saw a narrative unfolding, a growing mutual respect and love between them. I didn't realise they'd got closer after Dave retired. The look on Norm's face when his feelings for Dave were reciprocated, on his own show, says it all. I love the idea that Norm eventually found a friend and confidante in Dave.
@@Sola174 thanks again, a great reminder, just in time, about all that's good in this world,in these times.
What great love and respect they had for each other. Thank you for providing this compilation of two great modest talented comedians. I hate that Norm is no longer on this planet! I really miss him, such an original person, not just a comedian but a lovely genuine person, God bless him!
Hundreds of thousands of hours? Can I get a specific value?
@@timferrell6253 I have watched Dave thousands of hours, and Norm hundreds of hours. If you like I can tabulate.
Letterman was right about Norms live podcast. It was compelling. Norm knew how to interlock his comedy and fascinating interviews with great guests.
However.... the best interviews with norm were on tom greens shows
Sure I knew that..
Interlaken is nice tourist destination.
I wish I could find all the full episodes.
I think it was on Netflix but I haven’t had that in years.
@@oldironsides4107 the netflix show was on Netflix and still is, the original podcast wasn't. It's still available on some archive sites and torrents
This is such a beautiful, moving tribute with meticulously arranged quotes and segments. Thank you so much for this.
I gotta stop crying over Norm Macdonald tributes. I love him and feel just as sad about losing him and Robin Williams
💜
(Munkykok is grateful as well.)
Perfectly said. Thank you. Gawd I miss Norm.
@@chauncyquest2779 I love comedians. And these three are my tops. The night Robin Williams died, I had a dream where my wife and I saw him at a cafe/grill place we were all seated at. He waved sheepishly to not bring attention. I’d forgotten about the dream until I got back home from work and saw his face on the TV screen, telling us he was gone.
What a world.
Man I find their relationship so charming and special. You can see mutual respect between the two. Rare to see Norm speechless when Letterman praises him.
Still miss Norm
What’s crazy is watching Norm get older and older and Letterman staying the same age.
It was like watching a son grow up and become a peer of his father.
Drinking that baby blood at parties with the rich. Adrenochrome
Alright, alright, alright
@@kitpalmer1583 doesn't seem like a relevant response lol
Did we see the same video? Letterman looked like Methhead Mark Twain by the end 🤣. I think Norm kept Letterman's comedic spirit alive, it was stunning to watch them over the years...and of course tragic to have lost Norm so suddenly, and far too quickly.
@@kitpalmer1583 That's hilarious! I got it immediately, although a year later.
My doctor told me to open my mouth and say thank you for all those emotions I got watching this video.
Sounds like you have great insurance.
Well done! One of my favorites Norm-Dave moments:
Norm: I hope you do have a child one day
Dave: I hope he turns out just like you!
The biggest compliment one could get.
It would be great for the editor of this video to put that one in. Classic. This video is already the best, but if that interaction were spliced in right after Norm calls him a father figure at the 4:40 mark... it would be perfect, more perfect.
@@littlelaker that was a really kind and tactful way of suggesting an improvement (sincere) you seem like a decent person…I hope you reproduce
@@littlelaker I agree, every time I see that exchange it catches my attention. If you didn’t know how they felt about one another you might assume it was part of the witty banter and didn’t mean anything. But knowing the mutual respect and all the support Letterman gave to Norm, you just know he meant it. It’s just a beautiful little moment where Norm gets some well deserved praise.❤️
Where was this?
@@arulpm2051 th-cam.com/video/ECRhB5O8WM0/w-d-xo.html
In the early 90s, before his SNL days, I saw Norm on a cheesy comedy special with a bunch of great comics and had taped it and memorised his set, it was so brilliant. He was booked to headline the comedy club where I worked in Chicago, and not even the owner who booked him had seen him before, just booked via some booking agent. But I was thrilled, and saw every single set, and got to spend the week hanging with Norm, and he was probably the only genuinely decent person I met in 3 years of working there. It's very surreal to see the arc of his life and career from this end now. Back then, no one I knew in the standup world paid any attention to him. They'd all deny that now, lol. But of all the people I saw back then who made it big, his success was the one that made me giddy. It took a long time but he deserves all the admiration.
Still makes me tear up watching what other people thought of Norm. I loved him and I didn't even know the man.
never ever have I missed a stranger so much. You will be missed. Rest in peace
I got to spend a week with him, before his SNL days when he was a touring club comic. He was kind, considerate, and the funniest human I've ever met, and I spent years working comedy clubs and 15+ in Hollywood. No one else has been that naturally funny and genuinely kind.
@katashley1031 - You lucky bastard!!
Man the love David letterman had for Norm it's so touching emotional and heartwarming seeing Dave praise Norm which he isn't known for praising people it brings tears to my eyes.
I love seeing Letterman glow up Norm to his face on the podcast. You know that meant the absolute world to him with everything he was going through at the time, and it must've been surreal having his hero tell him HE'S the best of the best. Wish Norm could've had several more years with us, but I hope he knew he was loved, appreciated, and respected by both the greats of comedy/showbiz and complete strangers alike.
It's crazy but I loved all three of them too. My absolute favorites. And you can see Conan and Norm as kind of brothers and Dave as kind of a father figure to them both actually. Dave was very protective of Norm and Conan when they dealt with Bs at NBC.
True
Nicely put
Not at all what I was expecting. I never thought I'd almost shed a tear watching Norm and David other than crying from laughter.
Superb video of these two legends of laugh.
so touching. i'm sure Dave was devastated like us all.
I’m still in tears Norm. You’re the best friend I never had, you helped me through my darkest days.
He is medicinal.
Same! Same same same! You are not alone
Norm saying “I got really sad” breaks my heart 😂🥲🥲
Sola174, This is hands down one of the best..., the fact that you did it and did it so fucking well, I'm so thoroughly impressed and off the charts appreciative. Thank you. Well F------- done! I share it sparingly. My two favorites who not everybody always gets. Bless you. Sola174. Nice job!
This is the best Tribute I have seen of Norm. I have watched everything of Norm for the last three or four years. This and Bob Saget’s personal tribute are the best. Big words from the greatest late night show funny man David Letterman. These two were the best. Letterman didn’t give praise unless he meant it. This was beautiful!!! Thanks
you should check out a video titled, "Norm MacDonald, the funniest man formerly alive."
Conan is my favorite , and he loved Norm too!
R.I.P. Bob too :(
It's hard to believe how much I miss Norm Macdonald. I smile just to see his face.. And Letterman is a national treasure.
The way Conan and Norm were so tremendously in awe of and respectful to Dave...endeared them forever.
Rip the man. Truly one of the greats that will go unnoticed by many.
Really really great job putting this together.
I was thinking the same thing
So I have always felt strangely connected to Norm. Im 43, born Oct. 17. I became obsessed with watching Norm about 7 years ago...like obsessed. My wife noticed and bought me his book. I was so moved. Especially when I opened the book and the first lines revealed that Norms birthday was Oct. 17th. I cried reading that for some reason it really moved me. This video is the first time Ive seen Norms first appearance on Letterman, a monumental moment for him, and by extension, me. I also noticed that the other guest that fateful night was George Wendt...who I happen to know, through many years of Radio DJ's pronouncement on our birthday...was also born on Oct. 17th. I dont believe I have to tell you the name of the character George Wendt iconized on Cheers...Norm, of course. Sometimes, whatever God is, has a sublime comedic timing. Norm was that...walking among us, eating Count Chocula. I miss him.
Almost every comment here is good, but yours is truly amazing. But I must tell you that my birthday is 2 months and 2 days earlier, so I’m just a voyeur.
Norm, the enigma that was impossible to know and now impossible to forget.
I can’t imagine crying over a stranger’s death again but I hope I do
I just did.
Right after Norm left us behind, I was binge watching everything Norm.
I got to the point where I couldn't take anymore, then I stumbled on this video and the floodgates opened.
RIP Norm, I didn't even know you were sick!😭
I've rewatched this an unhealthy and countless number of times. One of my favourite compilations of Norm I've ever seen (and I've seen them all). Bravo! A perfect tribute to the undisputed GOAT of comedy.
**Thank you all for the 1M views!** ,for your appreciation, and feedback. I've been staggered and very moved by your comments. I hope I haven't intensified anyone's grief but rather their love and gratitude. To Norm and Dave. ☺️🙏❤️
Brilliant video, thank you!
Great video.
It took me more time than the length of this video just to make an attempt at articulating how impactful it was to me. I can't. Instead, may I simply say, with all sincerity, thank you.
It's brilliant
Well all the comments are well-deserved. My co-host and I consider ourselves to be among the elite when it comes to Norm fans and aficionados. We have a full episode of our podcast queued up that is dedicated to Norm and what most people miss about him as a person and his comedy. After scouring the internet and locating every clip of Norm to use as reference material we have a good collection to draw from.
This video stands on its own as the finest piece of art dedicated to a singular topic “Norm & Letterman” This video should be, and will eventually, (I know we will do our part to promote/share it on our show) garner the millions of views it rightly deserves and will bring the joy and tears to all the fans of “the Only” Norm and Letterman that are out there who have yet to be moved by this labor of love you have created.
On behalf of all fans of Norm and Letterman. We are and will be eternally grateful.
GL
Norm's personality and his very particular way of being makes it very difficult to think that he is no longer with us. His comedy specials and all those memorable appearances on all kinds of shows keep him as alive and relevant as ever!
I came here expecting a compilation of his jokes and ended up tearing up realizing that I miss this guy. This was so well put.
Yep, agree mate! 🙂👍👌
The men, the representative bond/emotions, the beauty of our wild chance to partake in during and/or reminisce of such beauty. 🥲🤝
I grew up watching Letterman, and loved his late night show. As a kid I never understood Norms humor.
It wasn't until my early 30's that I started to really appreciate Norm's masterful approach to comedy.
Thank you for this video.
A lot of people enjoy Norm's work but Letterman actually really "got" him. The fact that he realized, Norm's persona is a big part of his act just underlines this - usually people mistake this with him being weird. They are both outliers because they are both very intelligent and humble, which is fairly rare in show business. I hope you are less sad now, because I know I am. Thank you for this.
I don’t think this is entirely correct. I think Dave knew that Norm was just a gifted guy and that his persona and the man were inextricably intertwined unlike a lot of stage comedians who are someone different on and off the stage. He repeatedly implies that norm is simply norm at all times and he has what a lot of pros work extremely hard to cultivate naturally.
Well said. 👍
That was great comment.
A personal gives a comic access to certain material, yep Dave saw the Norm act early on and got it. Took me 30 years to see Norm out of caricature, he sells the simple man so well.
🙏🏼
9:15 Oh my gosh, this was so moving - I never knew Dave said this to Norm - what a beautiful thing thank you! 💙
The two funniest men in my lifetime. I feel lucky that I grew up under their reign.
Oh, so you get it a, :)
Good grief...why?? why did I have to stumble across this today? Why am I crying like a baby? WHY is Norm no longer with us? Lost Norm in Sept, my dad in Dec. My dad and I used to repeat Norm bits to each other. What an amazing video. Aweseome, awesome work, thank you.
I'm Canadian & older than norm & watched him through the years. Hurt when he passed. This particular vid made my eyes well up. I thank you for doing this from my heart.
Fellow Canuck here. Never really appreciated Norm until later in life, but I do massively now.
Awesome! When I was a kid growing up, I couldn't wait for Carson to go off so I could watch Letterman! Still to this day I know in my heart that he was the best there was!
I thought I'd done crying over Norm. Nope. 😪 amazing video 👏
Christ, me too. Miss you, Norm.
Great video. Makes me miss Norma even more and makes me appreciate Dave all that much more.
This is an outstanding piece of work, better than what some of the networks put together. Take a bow
This video. This one. I’ve been holding it together since norm died but this one really made me break down. Everyone misses you so much norm.
one of the greatest things to me about Norm was how genuine he was, with his friendships and his feelings and how life was to him. the way he was so honest about how he felt towards David Letterman, or Bob Saget (rest in peace), and all of his friends is so precious.
I remember listening to Saget's video about Norm shortly after he had passed, and just being so awestruck at how open and vulnerable they were with each other. "One of the gifts of my life is that he loved me." Letterman was very close to Norm as well, and you can really see it in how he praises him and how he opens up his thoughts to tell Norm the genuine truth. "I wish I was as smart as you."
There is something so magical about these men. The way they were so open and willing to admit that they loved Norm, and that Norm was completely transparent in how much he loved them, too. It's incredibly powerful. I love these men, and I hope to forge friendships as deep and precious as they have.
And if you haven't yet, I hope you do, too ❤
A phenomenal (and hugely moving) retrospective. Thank you for this!
What a great job you did putting this together. Norm's admiration of David Letterman; and Dave's reciprocal admiration, is the best story in all of comedy.
You can tell they had a true friendship and admiration for each other. Miss you Norm!
Great tribute to two warm, authentic, loving and funny men. Beautiful. Thank you.
There was Just one or two memories that can make me happy and sad at the same time. Now there are two or three. Thank you sir.
So sweet how he considered Letterman a father figure. He really got a lot of love and validation from Letterman. So wonderful to see.
This is really lovely. Excellent work my friend.
I am so glad my hero got all the love he deserved from his hero. Feels like a close family member is no more with me.
Holy crow! This made me tear.
This is an emotional watch and I didn't expect that. Ty 👍✌️
Norm was such a class act. Everything except his stories are genuine lol but he tells them in such a way that only Norm can do. He'll be missed more than he could have ever imagined. RIP Norm Macdonald, you were a gentleman and a scholar.
He was great so long as he wasn't doing material. His material was trash. I actually enjoyed seeing him for once not doing material with Letterman. Every other place I saw him, he was always so contrived and in-character
@@zacharywhite211 I'm guessing you don't own a dog house.
@@zacharywhite211 found the swedish-german
@@SobridMusic I do. I don't know why some of you people have such a hard time when it's pointed out that Norm's material sucked. He was great off material though. Lovely guy. Also when doing someone else's material like in SNL
@@zacharywhite211 do you know exactly which exact lines were his on SNL and which one's were written by somebody else? Seems like a lot of dedication towards someone you don't like.
Came here for a laugh - and the german joke specifically - from the only entertainer that ever made me give a shit about them. My favorite entertainer ever. Genuine mad man with a heart of gold and supreme ethics/morals when it came down to real life. Norm.
Got a massive cry as well. Brilliant editing. Miss that dude every day.
Norm was, is and always will be, the very incarnation of funny. It would be impossible for him to not be funny. It would be like water not being wet or the sun not being bright. It is a brand of funny that houses a wonderful brilliance, sweetness, love & kindness. I miss him every day.
nah he’s just some fuckin guy from canada
Wow, that was really special. Thanks so much for making this, it was very moving. ❤❤❤
This is very touching. Well done.
@Sola174, thank you for this. I feel the same as you, and I miss Norm every single day. I loved Norm. He is absolutely my favorite comedian of all times, and it was always my dream to meet him and just tell him thank you. Obviously that won't happen. This is a fantastic compilation, and I very much appreciate you making it.
The love and respect that these two men had for each other was extraordinary. They were both so humble and geniunely in awe of each other's talent. This video is a wonderful tribute to them both ... a gift to the world. Thank you! 👏💖👏💖👏💖
I remember a comment about comedians, that they were so happy at a party when they saw a fellow comedian. I think Dave felt like that about Norm.
Thank you for this.
What a great friendship through the years, it’s just amazing to see.
I really appreciated this post! Norm Mc
Donald was one of a kind! He took chances that I think few people ever really dared to take. People that dislike him really don’t know what kind of guy he really was. I’ve read somewhere that he is a comedian’s comedian and you can’t get much higher praise that! I’m glad David Letterman was someone that Norm looked up to because he was a good dude and still is a good dude. David was also responsible for keeping Craig Ferguson on TV for as long as he was! So he knew talent. Norm will never be duplicated! Few geniuses ever are! Thanks i
Thanks for doing this. It's a beautiful time capsule. I've seen all these clips separately, but this is an outstanding edit.
In my head I read that as “cap-suule” as Norm always pronounced it.
I feel like Letterman is saying “hey, you’d be a great talk show host” and norm (of course) is going “ohh nooo noo”
What a great (and unexpected) tribute. I also was expecting a compilation
I really just miss Norm. God bless you Norm, you made the world a funnier place, RIP. What a wonderful peice this was to watch, thank you.
Brilliant retrospective of Norm , well chosen clips with his idol Letterman & just so carefully & well put together .. a fitting tribute to a great performer.that we already miss.
Oh Norm!! Those early clips?? Young, vibrant, healthy, fresh…gone too soon!! And the much underrated The Norm Show!!
Incredible work. Two absolute geniuses.
Thank you, Don Giller.
You got a tear from me. You did a great job. Great video. Gosh, the world needs Norm. Maybe we do! Or maybe I just do.
Thank you for this. I am moved, and in turn steeled for a future without Norm.
Damn, that hit me a lot harder than i expected, great video.
I have been waiting for someone to pay tribute to the beautiful relationship these two incredible men shared. This went far above my expectations. Thank you for all the time and effort you obviously put into this masterpiece. I’m sure I’ll watch it over and over again.💕
Both of those guys are 2 of my favorites. It was touching to see the softer side of Norm , he was so irreverent about everything I would have never believed it if I hadn't seen it. RIP Norm.
You can tell that David truly cared for Norm this is such a heartwarming story!
This is absolutely beautiful...Great job
The beautiful thing about that relationship is you can actually be friends with your childhood hero to such an extent that they end up admiring you.
Such a well put together video. They even put references to all the interviews in the description. Very professional.
So moving & real from Norm. Their friendship & comedic genius & timing stayed with them for a long time. Beyond & into the universe. Miss Norm on David Letterman. Best guest ever. 🙏💙
wow that was beautiful, didnt expect this, thanks for putting it together
I love this edit. Stayed in beautiful tears for the entire viewing...thank you
Very, very well done. Such a beautiful tribute. Thank you for this 😭
This video is so sweet. Dave and Norm and their beautiful friendship. The goodbye to Dave was really one of the sweetest moments in the history of television.
They’re both very intelligent and extremely funny. It’s the best combination. Norm was unique.
Merry Christmas Norm. We miss you.
Great video! There’s nobody like Norm. He’ll always have a special place in my heart.
I didn’t want this video to end
Great job. I like to think Norm is our generation’s John Candy in a lot of ways. Such a great heart
It's really nice to see this compilations of some of the sweet and sincere bits of Norm, thank you for making this.
this is a youtube masterpiece!!
How very wonderful true friendship is. Thank you for documenting it. I hope Harold Delaney watched it.
Thank you. This was a great video. It makes me feel so happy to watch the respect they had for each other. It's beautiful. So thank you.
What a beautiful era in the history of our lives...I'm so glad that I grew up with Johnny Carson, Dave Letterman, and Norm Macdonald...just to mention a few. Time is flying. Rest In Peace, Norm...Thanks for the entertainment.