David Letterman Drama

David Letterman is supposed to just be funny, not be the center of a case of extortion. But he is, so let's talk about it. Or, better yet, let's let TMZ talk about it so my hands don't get sore typing:

We've learned Robert "Joe" Halderman was arrested yesterday outside the CBS headquarters in NYC, and it was news to the people inside who make the news.

Our sources say the Manhattan D.A. played the investigation close to the vest and people inside the building were baffled when the highly-respected producer was cuffed and hauled off in the David Letterman extortion case.

As we already reported Halderman had a relationship with Stephanie Birkitt and lived with her. But we're told they had broken up "recently." We do not know who ended the relationship, but Halderman allegedly was in possession of Birkitt's diary, correspondence and photos -- which he says incriminated Letterman.

People connected with the network tell us Letterman did have a relationship with Birkitt, but the word is that it ended before Letterman had his baby in 2003.

While all of this may or may not be true, one thing is for sure. Blackmailing late night comedians is a great idea. I'm going to accuse Leno of running me over in one of his 80 cars and demand he pay me $5million and/or let me touch his chin. It's pretty much the same value.

10.02.09 at 10:27:04 AM
    GALLERIES YOU SHOULDN'T MISS!