BoatBanter.com - Colbert signed to succeed Letterman...

The CBS Television Network today announced that Stephen Colbert, the
host, writer and executive producer of the Emmy and Peabody
Award-winning “The Colbert Report,” will succeed David Letterman as the
host of THE LATE SHOW, effective when Mr. Letterman retires from the
broadcast. The five-year agreement between CBS and Colbert was announced
by Leslie Moonves, President and CEO, CBS Corporation, and Nina Tassler,
Chairman of CBS Entertainment.

Letterman, the legendary, critically acclaimed host of the CBS late
night series for 21 years, announced his retirement on his April 3
broadcast. Colbert’s premiere date as host of THE LATE SHOW will be
announced after Mr. Lettermen determines a timetable for his final
broadcasts in 2015.

Specific creative elements, as well as the producers and the location
for the Colbert-hosted LATE SHOW, will be determined and announced at a
later date.

“Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on
television,” said Moonves. “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.”

“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,” said
Tassler. ”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.”

“Simply being a guest on David Letterman’s show has been a highlight of
my career,” said Colbert. “I never dreamed that I would follow in his
footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave’s lead.”

Adding, “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.”

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Interesting, to say the least. :)