CBS confirmed rumors that Stephen Colbert will be replacing David Letterman as the host of the Late Show in the wake of his retirement announcement.
The NY Times reports that Colbert, a host of his own political comedy-talk show on Comedy Central, will sign on for a five-year term as the host of the Late Show to begin next year, after his current contract expires.
The long time host Letterman announced his plans to step down last week once his contract expires in August 2015. However, as USA Today notes, Letterman may choose to step down earlier next year.
Rumors had already been circulating that Colbert would replace Letterman now that he's ending his 33-year-long career in hosting the popular talk show.
"Simply being a guest on David Letterman's show has been a highlight of my career," Colbert said in response to the news. "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."
Colbert will likely abandon his ultra-conservative alter ego he plays on Comedy Central's The Colbert Report to host the talk show.