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NEW YORK — Stephen Colbert will succeed David Letterman on "The Late Show" when Letterman retires in 2015, CBS said in a press release Thursday.
Letterman has been with "The Late Show" for over 21 years and announced his retirement on April 3.
Colbert has been the host, writer and executive producer of the Emmy-winning "The Colbert Report" since 2005.
“Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on television,” Leslie Moonves, president and CEO of CBS, said in the press release. “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 said he's "thrilled and grateful" for this new opportunity.
“Simply being a guest on David Letterman's show has been a highlight of my career,” Colbert said. “I never dreamed that I would follow in his footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave's lead.”
Prior to working on "The Colbert Report," Colbert was a writer for "Saturday Night Live" and has appeared on HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and NBC's "Law & Order: Criminal Intent."
“Stephen is a multi-talented and respected host, writer, producer, satirist and comedian who blazes a trail of thought-provoking conversation, humor and innovation with everything he touches,” said Nina Tassler, chairman of CBS Entertainment. ”He is a presence on every stage, with interests and notable accomplishments across a wide spectrum of entertainment, politics, publishing and music. We welcome Stephen to CBS with great pride and excitement, and look forward to introducing him to our network television viewers in late night.”
Colbert inked a five-year deal with CBS, and his start date will be announced once Letterman decides how many shows he will do in 2015.
