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!
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