Spawning a television career of more than three decades, David Letterman is set to retire on 2015 after his contract with CBS expires.
The 66 year-old The Late Show host said in his show that he has informed CBS chief Leslie Moonves about this move. "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," Letterman said.
He mentioned that he and the Moonves had a great relationship for years and agreed to work together on this circumstance and the timing itself. "I just want to reiterate my thanks for the support from the network, all of the people who have worked here, all of the people in the theater, all of the people on the staff, everybody at home, thank you very much," he stated and joked, "what this means now, is that Paul and I can be married."
In the show's recent episode, Letterman recounted that he has done 4, 014 episodes since his late night show started in 1993. "I think it will be at least a year or so, but sometime in the not too distant future, 2015 for the love of God, in fact, Paul and I will be wrapping things up," he said.
Reports claimed that low ratings pushed Letterman's retirement sooner after its rival Jimmy Fallon's The Tonight Show has been receiving high show ratings.
Followed by his announcement, hints on who will claim Letterman's timeslot circulated around the internet. Among them were Craig Ferguson, Ellen Degeneres, John Stewart, Stephen Colbert and Jay Leno circulated. CBS has yet to formally announce what show will replace Letterman's show.
Moonves emphasized Letterman's contribution as significant after his announcement. "There is only one David Letterman. His greatness will always be remembered here, and he will certainly sit among the pantheon of this business," he stated.
"On a personal note, it's been a privilege to get to know Dave and to enjoy a terrific relationship. It's going to be tough to say goodbye. Fortunately, we won't have to do that for another year or so. Until then, we look forward to celebrating Dave's remarkable show and incredible talents," the TV executive concluded.
David Letterman has been in the television industry for 32 years and has been nominated and awarded in various bodies including the Emmy's, the American Comedy and Peabody awards. He underwent a quintuple heart by-pass in 2000. Letterman was also awarded with Kennedy Center Honors, for being one of the most influential personalities in television and entertainment.
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