Stephen Colbert’s Final Show Airs Soon: When Will He Take Over For David Letterman?

During Thursday night’s broadcast of The Colbert Report, host Stephen Colbert announced that the final episode of his show will air on December 18, 2014. This announcement came in the opening segment, which he also used to plug his new book, America Again, which was recently released in paperback.

“This book is perfect for longtime fans or first-time viewers who are wondering, ‘Who is this Colbert guy?’ All your questions are answered in here, starting with ‘Has he written a book?’ You’ll have to buy it to find out.”

But there was another reason why he wanted audience members to buy America Again.

“There’s an even more important reason to buy my book. On December 18, my show is ending.”

Colbert’s announcement of his final show drew boos from the audience.

“I know, I know. But, folks, after nine years, I am taking a well-earned vacation — though I’m not sure where yet.”

Before the segment drew to a close, Colbert reiterated that the final episode will air soon, and people should purchase America Again.

“The point is Stephen Colbert, the guy you’ve seen here every night for nine years, will be gone. And all you’ll have left of me is this book.”

As previously reported by the Inquisitr, Stephen Colbert will take over as host of The Late Show after David Letterman retires in 2015. But Colbert will be doing it as himself and not as the fictitious anchorman he is on his Comedy Central show.

In a press release, Colbert said he never saw himself as being host of The Late Show.

“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.”

It is uncertain when Colbert will take over for The Late Show and Letterman has not officially announced on which date his final stint as host will air. However, The Wrap is reporting it is likely that Colbert’s Late Show will start in September 2015, as the fall television season kicks off.

After Colbert’s final show airs, Daily Show correspondent Larry Wilmore will reportedly fill the empty 11:30 p.m. time slot with his new show, The Minority Report, beginning in January of 2015.

[Image credited to John Paul Filo/CBS via Parade]