Stephen Colbert To Replace Letterman On ‘Late Show’

Stephen Colbert has been announced as the next host of the “Late Show,” replacing David Letterman.

CBS announced that the “Colbert Report” host has inked a deal for five years to host the network’s flagship late night program.

“Simply being a guest on David Letterman’s show has been a highlight of my career,” Colbert said in a statement on Thursday. “I never dreamed that I would follow in his footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave’s lead.”

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Adding, “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.”

Letterman announced his retirement on April 3 after 21 years of hosting. Colbert’s premiere date has yet to be announced, as Letterman determines his timetable for his final broadcast sometime in 2015.

“Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on television,” Leslie Moonves, President and CEO of CBS, said in a statement on Thursday. “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.”

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Colbert’s current network, Comedy Central, is overjoyed for new his new gig.

“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.”

— Jesse Spero

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