Ideas Session | Ayad Akhtar, Richard Ayoade, and David Letterman | The Atlantic Festival 2025

From The Atlantic.

Join us for a series of fireside chats with cultural luminaries. First, the playwright Ayad Akhtar and Atlantic editor in chief Jeffrey Goldberg discuss how technology is redefining the future of art and humanity. Then, the British comedian and writer Richard Ayoade will sit down with the legendary late-night talk-show host David Letterman to discuss the personal and professional experiences that have shaped his approach to comedy and writing.

Speakers include:
Ayad Akhtar, Playwright, McNeal
David Letterman, Talk Show Host, Comedian, and Producer
Richard Ayoade, Comedian and Actor
Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor in Chief, The Atlantic

The Atlantic Festival brings the brand’s essential journalism to life on stage through dynamic conversations, exclusive screenings, and engaging performances. Expect rigorous dialogue with influential voices in politics, culture, business, technology, and media—plus opportunities to connect with other curious, thoughtful attendees.

The 2025 lineup includes Scott Galloway, Richard Ayoade with David Letterman, H.R. McMaster, Clara Wu Tsai, Arvind Krishna, Jennifer Doudna, Monica Lewinsky, Catherine Coleman Flowers, Bryan Stevenson, Dr. Becky Kennedy, and many more. Atlantic journalists including Jeffrey Goldberg, Jemele Hill, Vann Newkirk, and Sophie Gilbert will moderate and lead discussions.

Explore the full event: https://www.theatlantic.com/theatlanticfestival/