CBS News – CBS has chosen British actor James Corden to take over for Craig Ferguson as host of “The Late Late Show.”
The network made the announcement Monday, adding that Corden will take the reins at the late-night talk show in 2015.
Corden, 36, earned a Tony Award in 2012 for his performance in the play “One Man, Two Guvnors” and appears in the movie “Begin Again” with Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo. He also plays The Baker in the upcoming film “Into the Woods,” co-starring with Meryl Streep and Johnny Depp.
Additionally, Corden hosts the BAFTA Award-winning U.K. sports-themed comedy game show “A League of Their Own” and stars in, produces and writes the BAFTA nominated comedy thriller “The Wrong Mans,” which is available on Hulu and airs on the BBC. He also co-created and starred in the British comedy series “Gavin & Stacy,” for which he won a BAFTA Award in 2008.
“James Corden is a rare entertainment force who combines irresistible charm, warmth and originality with a diverse range of creative instincts and performance talent,” said Nina Tassler, Chairman, CBS Entertainment. “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. James is already a big star in the U.K. and he’s wowed American audiences on Broadway; we’re very excited to introduce his considerable and very unique talents to our network television audience on a daily basis.”
“I can’t describe how thrilled and honored I am to be taking over from the brilliant Craig Ferguson,” added Corden. “To be asked to host such a prestigious show on America’s #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.”
Ferguson announced his exit from the “Late Late Show” in April, after David Letterman revealed he would be retiring from the “Late Show” next year. “The Colbert Report” host Stephen Colbert will be taking over for Letterman in the 11:35 p.m. time slot.
