Just hours after a report said that David Gregory could be leaving NBC News’ iconic Sunday Washington talkshow Meet The Press, the network has confirmed it. Gregory also said on Twitter that he is leaving NBC completely.

As we reported a few hours ago, rumors started this week that NBC News was in haste to replace Gregory, who has hosted MTP since Tim Russert’s shocking death in 2008. Gregory was once a rising star at NBC News and even co-hosted the Today Show occasionally, but the network’s opinion on him soured as ratings for the show declined.

Gregory sent two tweets this afternoon, confirming that he is not only leaving the show, but the network as well.

“I leave NBC as I came - humbled and grateful. I love journalism and serving as moderator of MTP was the highest honor there is,” he wrote. “I have great respect for my colleagues at NBC News and wish them all well. To the viewers, I say thank you.”

NBC News division chief Deborah Turness also sent a statement to employees, obtained by Deadline. In the memo, Turness confirms rumors that MSNBC’s Chuck Todd will be taking over the show. Todd is a political junkie and also frequently appears as an analyst on NBC Nightly News. He will take over on Sept. 7.

“There is no one with a bigger passion for politics than Chuck. His unique ability to deliver that passion with razor sharp analysis and infectious enthusiasm makes him the perfect next generation moderator of this beloved broadcast,” Turness wrote. “Chuck will ensure that Meet the Press is the beating heart of politics, the place where newsmakers come to make news, where the agenda is set.”

She also noted that there are plans to make changes to the show and update the format. Todd will also continue his role as NBC News political director. He will also keep hosting MSNBC’s 9 a.m. show The Daily Rundown.

image of David Gregory & his wife courtesy of Walter McBride/INFphoto.com