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 slated to replace Letterman ; great for CBS , risky for Colbert . He says Colbert brings new late-night essentials : social media savvy , buzz . But Colbert could lose edge when he drops persona ; will fans follow him , he asks ? Bianculli 's bet is that Colbert , a smart interviewer , will likely do well as himself .