Late-Night Hosts Respond To Colbert Replacing Letterman

Leno vs. Letterman. Leno vs. Team Coco. #CancelColbert. If you were expecting any drama over yesterday's announcement that Stephen Colbert would be taking over for the departing David Letterman next year, well, you might be surprised. Turns out the late-night crew has got nothing but love for our favorite fake conservative.

Jon Stewart, who gave Colbert his big break on The Daily Show, wished his longtime friend well. After a little good-natured ribbing via an embarrassing video clip, Stewart offered this touching tribute: "Truly one of the great pleasures of doing this show has been trying to maintain professional composure while Mr. Colbert is making me laugh uncontrollably. So, the exciting news today is I no longer need a cable subscription for the privilege of watching Stephen Colbert... While we wish Dave the absolute best for a well-earned retirement, there’s no greater joy for seeing a genuinely good man who works as hard as he can every day and deserves all the success in the world actually get that success."

Aw. Admittedly, things took a turn when guest Jennifer Garner revealed that she used to babysit Colbert's children, and that he is "cheap." Way to rain on the parade, Jen.

Meanwhile, newly anointed Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon dismissed any rumors of tension as he prepares to face off against the Colbert Report star. "He's very funny," Fallon told his audience last night. "He's a good friend. Now, a lot of people in the media are already talking about there being a new late-night war — and I just want to say there's not going to be any war. It'll be a dance-off. A late-night dance-off! Get ready, Stephen." Can we request a lip–synch battle instead?

Craig Ferguson also sent his well wishes, welcoming Colbert into the CBS fold. And, what does the man himself have to say? Staying in character, Colbert lavished praise on Letterman, then joked about who might replace the Late Show host. "I gotta tell you, I do not envy whoever they try to put in that chair," he quipped. "Those are some huge shoes to fill — and some really big pants."

Indeed. Bring it on, Stevie. Don't forget to click below to see Stewart's sweet send-off. (Vulture)