David Letterman Confirms News On Retirement

David Letterman, U.S. TV host, has confirmed his plans to retire from The Late Show in 2015.

Ex-R.E.M. star Mike Mills broke the news on Thursday, April 3th, after being a guest on the show. During the episode, the 67-year old legend announced his plans to leave the show in 2015.

David has been the host of the show for 21 years. He has also released a monologue on Thursday night in which he explains his attention to CBS boss, Les Moonves.

He stated, “The man who (runs) this network, Leslie Moonves, he and I have had a relationship for years and years and years, and we have had this conversation in the past, and we agreed that we would work together on this circumstance and the timing of this circumstance.”

“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‘.”

He also added, “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 theatre, all the people on the staff, everybody at home, thank you very much.”

“We don’t have the timetable for this precisely down – I think it will be at least a year or so, but sometime in the not too distant future.”

This is a statement from Moonves, “When Dave decided on a one-year extension for his most recent contract, we knew this day was getting closer, but that doesn’t make the moment any less poignant for us.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/GettyImages)

For 21 years, David Letterman has graced our network’s air in late night with wit, gravitas and brilliance unique in the history of our medium. During that time, Dave has given television audiences thousands of hours of comedic entertainment, the sharpest interviews in late night, and brilliant moments of candor and perspective around national events.”

“There is only one David Letterman. His greatness will always be remembered here, and he will certainly sit among the pantheon of this business.”

“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.”

After the news broke, some famous TV stars also tweeted to say their goodbyes to the legend.

Ellen DeGeneres wrote, “David @Letterman announced he’s retiring in 2015. It’s been 31 incredible years. Television won’t be the same without you, Dave.”

David @Letterman announced he’s retiring in 2015. It’s been 31 incredible years. Television won’t be the same without you, Dave.

— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) April 3, 2014

Former Seinfeld star Jason Alexander also wrote, “Mr. Letterman, you have always been the best. I’ve had more fun on your show and you’ve been a class guy all the way. Enjoy ur (your) final days.”

Mr. Letterman, you have always been the best. I’ve had more fun on your show and you’ve been a class guy all the way. Enjoy ur final days.

— jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) April 3, 2014