David Letterman Announces The Final ‘Late Show’ Date

According to an announcement by CBS, David Letterman will soon say his last goodbye as the host of the Late Show on Wednesday, May 20, 2015. The final episode will end a 22 year reign at CBS and a 32 year career as a late night talk show host. The time spent on air also gives him the honor of being the longest running talk show host on television.

Leslie Moonves, president and CEO of CBS Corp, shared that it is not going to be easy to say goodbye to David Letterman, but she looks forward to his upcoming shows. He also claims that his legacy will not be forgotten, according to Time Magazine.

“David Letterman has given to all of us a remarkable legacy of achievement and creative brilliance that will never be forgotten. It’s going to be tough to say goodbye, but I know we will all cherish the shows leading up to Dave’s final broadcast in May.”

David Letterman announced his retirement in April to the surprise of everyone, including the network. His departure will leave a gaping hole in late night television that will be tough to fill. However, Stephen Colbert has stepped up to take on the monumental task of hosting the Late Show and hopes to carry on the legacy of Letterman.

David Letterman announced his retirement to his live studio audience, mere minutes after telling his own boss, shared Rolling Stone.

“The man who owns this network, Leslie Moonves, he and I have had a relationship for years and years and years, and we have had this conversation in the past, and we agreed that we would work together on this circumstance and the timing of this circumstance. And I phoned him just before the program, and I said, ‘Leslie, it’s been great. You’ve been great. And the network has been great, but I’m retiring.'”

Stephen Colbert is excited to follow in Letterman’s footsteps and cannot believe he is next in line. He claims the highlight of his career was appearing on the Late Show with David Letterman, but taking over the big chair is surreal.

Many are wondering how Colbert’s style will change when he transitions to the Late Show, since he plays a character on the Colbert Report. Regardless, Colbert will promise his A game while hosting and keep the legacy of the Late Show alive and well.

How do you feel about David Letterman’s sudden retirement and his successor?

[Photo Courtesy: Hollywood Reporter]