Stephen Colbert steps into Letterman's shoes on CBS Late Show
Stephen Colbert is to replace David Letterman on the CBS Late Show when Letterman steps down next year, the network has announced. The news is a disappointment for Scotsman Craig Ferguson, who has made a big success on the Late Late show, becoming an American citizen in the process.
Colbert takes over
The location of the new Colbert show - New York or Los Angeles - will be determined at a later date, the network said.
Colbert has signed a five-year contract, CBS boss Les Moonves revealed.
“Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on television,” Moonves said. “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 says in a statement: "I never dreamed that I would follow in his footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave's lead."
Colbert's Emmy-winning "The Colbert Report" has been a hit since its launch in 2005 on cable channel Comedy Central.
During a taping of his show last week, Letterman told his audience he had informed CBS he will step down in 2015, when his current contract expires.He jumped to CBS to start "Late Show" in 1993
Jay Leno, his rival on NBC's "Tonight Show," retired earlier this year, making way for Jimmy Fallon.