With David Letterman announcing his exit from “The Late Show” in 2015, all eyes now turn to his possible successor. Here are the 10 people who could replace Letterman (in order of seriousness):
Craig Ferguson
The host of “The Late Late Show,” 51, is the obvious choice. The Scottish-born comedian, who’s been hosting the 12:35 a.m. show since 2005 — it’s co-produced by Letterman’s Worldwide Pants and CBS — is a fan favorite known for his off-kilter, no-holds-barred late-night style. He’s never publicly expressed any desire to replace Letterman — but reportedly has a “Prince of Wales” clause in his contract that gives him the right to replace Dave when he decides to retire. And that time is now.
Jon Stewart
The 51-year-old host of “The Daily Show” was the favorite to replace Tom Snyder on CBS back in 1999 when Snyder left “The Late Late Show with Tom Snyder.” Stewart ended up at Comedy Central. Stewart is popular and, like Letterman, isn’t afraid to ask the tough questions. He’s under contract at Comedy Central until the middle of 2015 — right around the time Letterman will retire.
Conan O’Brien
He certainly has the late-night chops, having hosted “Late Night” for 16 years and “The Tonight Show” for seven months at NBC before moving to TBS — where he hosts “Conan.” His contract there reportedly expires in November 2015. Could CBS go with a rotating group of “Late Show” hosts until O’Brien is available? Discuss amongst yourselves.
Chelsea Handler
The host of E!’s “Chelsea Lately” says she’s bailing on the network when her contract expires later this year. While that could be a negotiating ploy, the timing would work if she were tapped to replace Letterman in 2015.
Chris Rock
Is trained in stand-up comedy, has a strong fan base and is really funny.
Aisha Tyler
She already has about 15 TV jobs, so maybe one more couldn’t hurt. She’s part of the CBS family as a co-host of “The Talk” (led by Julie Chen — who’s married to CBS chief Les Moonves).
Tina Fey
The TV audience loves her. She’s committed to hosting the Golden Globes (on NBC) next January, but would be free after that to switch networks. But would she want to compete against her old pal Jimmy Fallon?
Jay Leno
Why not? It would be the ultimate irony if he replaced his years-long adversary/frenemy. Another guy who doesn’t need the money, but if he really misses the late-night limelight, it would certainly be a headline-maker.
Jerry Seinfeld
He lives in New York and has plenty of late-night experience (granted, as a guest, but still . . . ). He’s another guy who doesn’t need the money, so salary wouldn’t be an issue — but does he really want to work that hard?
Louis C.K.
The comedian is really hot right now and, in 2012, even devoted a three-episode arc of his (fictional) FX show, “Louie,” in which he was hoping to replace Letterman on “The Late Show” (until Letterman signed a 10-year deal).