Unable to contain David Letterman’s retirement announcement, which will air on Thursday’s edition of “Late Show,” CBS’ president formally addressed the iconic host’s impending departure.<\/p>\n
“When Dave decided on a one-year extension for his most recent contract, we knew this day was getting closer, but that doesn\u2019t make the moment any less poignant for us,” says CBS president Les Moonves. “For 21 years, David Letterman has graced our Network\u2019s air in late night with wit, gravitas and brilliance unique in the history of our medium.During that time, Dave has given television audiences thousands of hours of comedic entertainment, the sharpest interviews in late night, and brilliant moments of candor and perspective around national events. He\u2019s also managed to keep many celebrities, politicians and executives on their toes \u2013 including me. There is only one David Letterman.<\/p>\n
“His greatness will always be remembered here, and he will certainly sit among the pantheon of this business. On a personal note, it\u2019s been a privilege to get to know Dave and to enjoy a terrific relationship. It\u2019s going to be tough to say goodbye. Fortunately, we won\u2019t have to do that for another year or so. Until then, we look forward to celebrating Dave\u2019s remarkable show and incredible talents.”<\/p>\n
Letterman’s news, first leaked by REM bassist Mike Mills, reportedly garnered a standing ovation from those in attendance at Thursday’s taping.<\/p>\n
Airing at 11:35PM on CBS, Thursday’s show features Johnny Depp and musical guest Joseph Arthur (joined by Mills on bass).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0},"categories":[1048],"tags":[275,1729,1728],"adace-sponsor":[],"yoast_head":"\n