Stephen Colbert to Take Over ‘The Late Show’

CBS has announced that Stephen Colbert of The Colbert Report on Comedy Central will replace David Letterman when Letterman retires from The Late Show next year.

CBS’ announcement revealed that Colbert has signed a five-year contract with the network. Details on the new Colbert-led Late Show, including producers and the show’s location, will be determined and announced later. The specific start date will be decided once Letterman figures out the exact date of his last show.

CBS president Les Moonves said, “Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on television. David Letterman’s legacy and accomplishments are an incredible source of pride for all of us here, and today’s announcement speaks to our commitment of upholding what he established for CBS in late night.”

Colbert added, “Simply being a guest on David Letterman’s show has been a highlight of my career. I never dreamed that I would follow in his footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave’s lead. I’m thrilled and grateful that CBS chose me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go grind a gap in my front teeth.”

Comedy Central issued a statement confirming that The Colbert Report will continue for eight more months, stating, “Comedy Central is proud that the incredibly talented Stephen Colbert has been part of our family for nearly two decades. We look forward to the next eight months of the ground-breaking Colbert Report and wish Stephen the very best.”

David Letterman released the following statement on Colbert being named his replacement, “Stephen has always been a real friend to me. I’m very excited for him, and I’m flattered that CBS chose him. I also happen to know they wanted another guy with glasses.”

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