CBS have finally released the premiere date for Stephen Colbert's first show as the host of the network's 'Late Show,' which he is taking over due to the retirement of the current longtime host, David Letterman.

Stephen Colbert
Colbert will make his 'Late Show' debut on September 8th

On Monday (Jan 12th) CBS' Entertainment Chairman Nina Tassler announced that the 'Late Show With Stephen Colbert' will debut on the network on September 8th, and although the exact format is still being worked out, Colbert's stint won't be a complete reinvention of the late-night chat show.

"He's aware that he's introducing audiences to his real self," Tassler said of the 50-year-old funnyman's 'Late Show' vision. "There will be parts that will be traditional, and there will be things he wants to do differently."

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"Simply being a guest on David Letterman's show has been a highlight of my career," Colbert said in a statement after agreeing to a deal. "I never dreamed that I would follow in his footsteps, though everyone in late night follows Dave's lead. I'm thrilled and grateful that CBS chose me. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go grind a gap in my front teeth."

Letterman, who announced his plans to retire in April 2014, will host his final show on May 20th after a near 22-year run. It is worth noting that CBS haven't released any detail on what will replace the 11:35pm opening between Letterman's exit and Colbert's Late Show debut.

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"Stephen Colbert is one of the most inventive and respected forces on television," said Leslie Moonves, president and CEO of CBS. "David Letterman's legacy and accomplishments are an incredible source of pride for all of us here, and today's announcement speaks to our commitment of upholding what he established for CBS in late night."