Stephen Colbert Replaces David Letterman: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

(Getty)

Stephen Colbert will be the replacement for David Letterman on The Late Show. Here’s the facts.

1. CBS Announced the Big News

CBS has released a press release in addition to social media posts announcing Colbert’s joining The Late Show as host. Colbert will replace David Letterman on the program, starting out with a 5-year contract.

2. The Timing Is Perfect

(Getty)

According to The Huffington Post, the timing would be perfect for both Letterman and Colbert.

Colbert’s The Colbert Report contract with Comedy Central runs through 2014 and Letterman announced that he will retire in 2015, which would make the timing ideal for both hosts.

3. Letterman Announced His Retirement on April 3, 2014

David Letterman announced that he would retire at the taping of his April 3rd show. Have a look at the clip above.

4. Recently Colbert Was in the Media for a Controversial Tweet

Stephen Colbert recently posted a tweet that many found to be racist, prompting a trend on Twitter to cancel Colbert’s show. We wonder how fans will feel about his becoming the new Late Show host.

5. John Oliver Reportedly Passed on the Role

It was previously reported that The Daily Show alum John Oliver actually passed on a role of Late Night host at CBS before signing up for a new HBO show. There were many other rumors circulating that Craig Ferguson or Jon Stewart were in the running for the late night gig as well.