Craig Ferguson Says Goodbye, James Corden Says Hello: CBS Names British Star New Host Of ‘The Late Late Show’
James Corden is officially the new host of "The Late Late Show" on CBS.
The 36-year-old British personality will take the helm of the show when Craig Ferguson steps down in December.
"I can't describe how thrilled and honored I am to be taking over from the brilliant Craig Ferguson," said Corden in a statement. "To be asked to host such a prestigious show on America's No. 1 network is hugely exciting. I can't wait to get started, and will do my very best to make a show America will enjoy."
The announcement comes after Ferguson's April 28th statement that he will be leaving "The Late Late Show" after 10 years as host.
For many in the U.S., James Corden is an unfamiliar name, although the actor/writer/comedian is widely popular in his native U.K.
But fans of the show need not worry. Ferguson tweeted his blessing shortly after the announcement was made.
CBS Entertainment's chairman Nina Tassler told the Hollywood Reporter that Corden is the ideal candidate for the role of late night host. "James Corden is a rare entertainment force who combines irresistible charm, warmth and originality with a diverse range of creative instincts and performance talent. He is the ultimate multi-hyphenate - a writer, creator and performer who is loved and respected in every medium he touches, including theater, comedy, music, film and television."
And while Corden may not have been the obvious choice in the eyes of American television viewers, Tassler insists that he was the best for the job.
"James is already a big star in the U.K. and he's wowed American audiences on Broadway," said Tassler. "We're very excited to introduce his considerable and very unique talents to our network television audience on a daily basis."
Although a relative unknown to U.S. audiences, Corden has made a name for himself in theatre, television, and film. He won a Tony Award in 2013 for Best Actor in a Play for his role in "One Man, Two Gubnors" on Broadway.
The British star gained critical acclaim for his work on the BBC sitcom "Gavin & Stacey." Corden co-created, co-wrote, and starring in the series, which ran from 2007 to 2010.
The soon-to-be "Late Late Show" host is currently starring in the film "Begin Again," alongside Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, and Adam Levine. Corden's new gig will begin in 2015.
He took to Twitter to express his thanks for the congratulatory buzz surrounding the announcement.