Well, that didn't take long: Apparently, just one week after David Letterman announced his intentions to retire from his longtime hosting gig on CBS' Late Show in 2015, The Colbert Report host Stephen Colbert has been officially named as his replacement.
Here's the official announcement from CBS on Stephen Colbert taking over as Late Show host. pic.twitter.com/gggTzmx5X1
Stephen Colbert announced as David Letterman's replacement by CBS - story coming
According to The Wrap, Colbert has signed a five-year deal with CBS, which will be effective when Letterman leaves his post on the Late Show in 2015. As for what this means for The Colbert Report on Comedy Central, that hasn't been specifically announced, but, well—hosting Late Show is a full time gig.
Of the announcement, President and CEO of CBS Corporation Leslie 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."
Similarly, Colbert released a statement about his upcoming hosting gig: "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."
Colbert has been rumored for the gig since Letterman announced his retirement, although it will likely mean that he will have to drop his Colbert Report character and host the show as himself. Additionally, Chelsea Handler and Ellen DeGeneres' names were thrown into the mix during speculation, as Handler has been reported to be in discussions with CBS for her own show on the network (this could still happen).
Congrats to Stephen Colbert!
[via The Wrap]
