Heeeeeere’s Stephen!
It didn't take long for CBS to find a replacement for David Letterman.
The network has tabbed Stephen Colbert, from Comedy Central's 'The Colbert Report', to take over for Letterman when he retires sometime next year.
In a CBS press release, network president Les 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.
In the same release, Colbert said:
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.
April 3rd, Letterman announced his intention to retire in 2015, after more than 30 years of hosting a late night TV show, first on NBC and for the last 21 years on CBS.
Colbert began the 'The Colbert Report' in 2005.
Is it the best choice?
It depends on what you're looking for.
Certainly Colbert is wildly popular, but will his off-beat, over-the-top character be effective in a more traditional talk show setting? And if he does drop 'the act', are viewers ready for a Stephen Colbert they've never seen before?
Wouldn't be my first choice...