Colbert , who has hosted `` The Colbert Report '' since 2005 in the tongue-in-cheek character of a pompous political conservative , was quoted by Bill Carter of The New York Times as saying he would be appearing on CBS as himself , not his comic alter ego . David Bianculli : Colbert wants to replace Letterman ; great for CBS , risky for NBC . He says Colbert brings new late - night essentials : social , savvy , buzz . But Colbert will go edge when he drops persona ; will fans follow him , he wonders ? Bianculli 's opinion is that Colbert , a smart interviewer , will likely do well as himself .
David Bianculli : Colbert wants to replace Letterman ; great for CBS , risky for NBC . He says Colbert brings new late - night essentials : social , savvy , buzz . But Colbert will go edge when he drops persona ; will fans follow him , he wonders ? Bianculli 's opinion is that Colbert , a smart interviewer , will likely do well as himself .