Stephen Colbert is Set to Replace David Letterman as ‘Late Show’ Host
Comedian Stephen Colbert has been tapped to replace David Letterman as the host of America’s the Late Show.
The 49 year old, who currently fronts his own political satire show The Colbert Report, has signed a five-year deal with CBS network executives to take over from the late night legend.
Letterman announced plans last week to retire from the popular New York-based talk show once his contract runs out in 2015, after more than two decades on the program. He broke the news to his network boss at CBS, Les Moonves, before the taping began.
He said, “The man who (runs) this network, Leslie Moonves, he and I have had a relationship for years and years and years, and we have had this conversation in the past, and we agreed that we would work together on this circumstance and the timing of this circumstance.
“I phoned him just before the programme, and I said, ‘Leslie, it’s been great, you’ve been great, and the network has been great, but I’m retiring’.”
Letterman added, “I just want to reiterate my thanks for the support from the network, all of the people who have worked here, all of the people in the theatre, all the people on the staff, everybody at home, thank you very much.
“We don’t have the timetable for this precisely down – I think it will be at least a year or so, but sometime in the not too distant future.”
A statement from Moonves reads: “When Dave decided on a one-year extension for his most recent contract, we knew this day was getting closer, but that doesn’t make the moment any less poignant for us. For 21 years, David Letterman has graced our network’s air in late night with wit, gravitas and brilliance unique in the history of our medium. During that time, Dave has given television audiences thousands of hours of comedic entertainment, the sharpest interviews in late night, and brilliant moments of candor and perspective around national events.
“There is only one David Letterman. His greatness will always be remembered here, and he will certainly sit among the pantheon of this business.
“On a personal note, it’s been a privilege to get to know Dave and to enjoy a terrific relationship. It’s going to be tough to say goodbye.”
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