Television host and comedian Stephen Colbert said he's practically itching to get back on stage, Variety reported. During his TCA panel, Colbert discussed plans for his upcoming "The Late Show" debut, revealed his first guests, dished about advice from his predecessor David Letterman and teased some Donald Trump material.
"Every little boy grows up believing they could be president of the United States. I'm so happy that little boy is Donald Trump. Please stay healthy until I get on the air," Colbert said. "Every night before I go to bed I light a candle and pray that he stays in the race, and I also pray that no one puts that candle anywhere near his hair."
Colbert's Comedy Central Show "Colbert Report" aired its last episode nine months ago. His
"The Late Show" debut is scheduled for Sept. 8, and he's anxious to get back on stage.
"I want to get in front of the audience and hear the laughter," he said at the TCA press event, according to the New York Times. He also revealed that his first guest will be George Clooney and his first musical guest will be Kendrick Lamar.
Colbert picked Letterman's brain during the last 10 days that the late-night TV icon was on the air, People reported. After heeding Letterman's advice, Colbert decided to move the desk to the opposite side of the stage at the Ed Sullivan Theater. Colbert also expressed how honored he is to be taking over for such a legendary host.
"Dave was everything to us," Colbert said, according to People. "I'm incredibly grateful and I had a chance to tell him how grateful I was for his example, for what he did for comedians for my generation, no matter what they were going to do."
