1988–89 United States network television schedule (late night)

These are the late night schedules for the four United States broadcast networks that offer programming during this time period, from September 1988 to August 1989. All times are Eastern or Pacific. Affiliates will fill non-network schedule with local, syndicated, or paid programming. Affiliates also have the option to preempt or delay network programming at their discretion.

Legend
Light blue indicates Local programming.

Gray indicates encore programming.

Yellow indicates late night talk or variety shows.

Gold indicates network news programming.

ABC
Returning Series
 * Nightline

CBS
Returning Series
 * CBS Late Night
 * CBS News Nightwatch

New Series
 * The Pat Sajak Show

Not Returning From 1987-88
 * Top of the Pops

Fox
New Series
 * Comic Strip Live

Not Returning From 1987-88
 * The Late Show
 * The Wilton North Report

NBC
Returning Series
 * Friday Night Videos
 * The George Michael Sports Machine
 * Late Night with David Letterman
 * Saturday Night Live
 * The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

New Series
 * Later With Bob Costas