David Letterman target of $2M extortion plot over flings with female employees

WASHINGTON - American TV host David Letterman stunned his fans on Thursday by revealing on his late night talk show that someone tried to extort him over “sexual relationships” he had with female employees.

“This morning, I did something I’ve never done in my life. I had to go downtown and testify before a grand jury,” Us magazine quoted the 62-year-old as having told his audience.

He revealed that he received a package in which an individual claimed that he had some information on his flings with female employees.

Letterman said that the individual wanted 2 million dollars for not revealing the information to the press.

The talk show host approached the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, after which an investigation into the matter was lauched.

Following the investigators’ advice, Letterman mailed a fake 2-million-dollar check to the blackmailer, which led to the extortionist’s arrest on Thursday.

As to whether he actually had sexual relationships, Letterman told his audience: “My response to that is, yes I have. Would it be embarrassing if it were made public? Perhaps it would. I feel like I need to protect these people - I need to certainly protect my family.”

Chris Ender, a spokesman for CBS, said: “Letterman’s comments on the broadcast tonight speak for themselves.”

After spending his life as a bachelor, Letterman wed long-time girlfriend Regina Lasko in March. In 2003, they welcomed a son, arry. (ANI)