Stephen Colbert: 5 Things About The New ‘Late Show’ Host

Stephen Colbert was announced as the new host of the “Late Show” on Wednesday (he’ll take over for David Letterman when the late night veteran retires next year).

Here are 5 things to know about the “Late Show” changeup and its hilarious new host:

Colbert Beat Out Many Competitors: “We talked about everyone and Stephen’s name just rose to the top very quickly,” Nina Tassler, CBS Entertainment Chief, told The Wrap, when asked if other (such as Neil Patrick Harris) had been considered for the prestigious late night gig. “I can’t give you a number, but it was a pretty robust list.”

He Will Host ‘Late Show’ As Himself: “Correct,” Tassler told EW, when asked if rumors that Colbert would drop his conservative “Colbert Report” character to host “Late Show.” “He’s done some limited speaking engagements [as himself]. When you really have such admiration for somebody’s talent, intelligence, and satiric ability, you know there’s a gifted performer there. Dave’s shoes are very big to fill, and we believe Stephen will honor Dave’s legacy in terms of his ability and intellect.”

The Show’s Title Will Remain The Same: “We know the ‘Late Show’ title will stay,” Tassler told EW, adding that they’re not sure if things like the Top 10 list will stick around.

Did CBS Consider Choosing A Woman Or Person Of Color To Host? “We talked about everybody. There were a lot of names that came up. All of that was taken into consideration,” Tassler told EW. “But his name just stood out above everybody else.”

He Got His Start In Improv Comedy: Like his new competitor, Jimmy Fallon, Colbert got his start in improv comedy, performing at Second City Chicago and appeared on “The Daily Show.” He’s also a self-proclaimed J.R.R. Tolkien geek.

— Erin O’Sullivan