The late-night talk show scene is ongoing a major makeover. Shortly after Jimmy Fallon took over The Tonight Show from Jay Leno and Seth Meyers occupied Fallon’s vacant Late Night seat, it was announced this week that Stephen Colbert is going to be David Letterman’s successor when the longstanding Late Show host retires in 2015. It has been confirmed that the Comedy Central host of the politically-bent Cobert Report will not be bringing over his conservative pundit character to the Late Show but instead will play himself (can’t wait to see what that will look like). Unfortunately for Report fans, when the transition happens that show will be no more. Here are some choice quotes from those parties involved:
Colbert: “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.”
Letterman: “Stephen has always been a real friend to me. I’m very excited for him, and I’m flattered that CBS chose him. I also happen to know they wanted another guy with glasses.”
CBS CEO Les Moonves: “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.”
CBS Entertainment chairman Nina Tassler: “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. 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.”