CBS announced Thursday that Comedy Central funnyman Stephen Colbert will succeed David Letterman as host of the “Late Show” when Letterman steps down next year.
Colbert, 49, will retire his over-the-top, faux-conservative persona when he slips behind the “Late Show” desk.
“Simply being a guest on David Letterman’s show has been a highlight of my career,” Colbert said in a news release. “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,” he added.
Colbert has appeared on Letterman’s show as a guest multiple times, perhaps none funnier than when he sat down at Dave’s side dressed in old British garb.
He played himself — not his character — in the segment, proving that he can be funny in any hat, including a top hat.
