Stephen Colbert will succeed retiring David Letterman — and I think there is no better choice.

After growing up with legends like Jack Paar, Johnny Carson and Steve Allen, I have been very disappointed by the choices networks have made for late night show hosts.

For years, David Letterman was the only one I really could stand.  When NBC chose Leno over Letterman, I was bummed out, but I came to understand that NBC is the National Bland Company and couldn’t handle the edgy Letterman.  He flourished on his own terms in his own show.

I really don’t want to get into criticisms of Leno or Conan O’Brien or Jimmy Fallon or Seth Myers.  I find Craig Ferguson watchable and enjoyable — in occasional small doses.  I like what Jimmy Kimmel does with his skits — occasionally.

The real talk shows and the real talent in the past decade have been on Comedy Central — Jon Stewart’s Daily Show and the Colbert Report.

The faux-conservative character of Colbert was such a delight and always fresh.  But I was amazed to discover the depths of his talent over the years (did you know he sang — on Broadway?).

Colbert will be worth watching, and we know he can keep up the quality every night.

Jon Stewart may stay at his current post until he retires — he has built a wonderful experience.  I just wish he could get the viewership Colbert is going to get on a major network.

Vive la Letterman, vive La Colbert!