'Colbert Report' Final Show Date Dec. 18, 'Late Show' To Premiere In 2015

Sorry nation, but it looks like "The Colbert Report" end just got a date. During Thursday night’s broadcast, the host announced that the final episode of the nine-year-old show will air on Dec. 18.

Previously, the show started its countdown of only 32 episodes, as seen in the video below. However, due to holidays and breaks, it was unclear exactly when the final episode would be.

During a plug for the newly released paperback copy of the star’s book, "America Again: Re-becoming the Greatness We Never Weren't," he broke the news to his audience with a dramatic close-up.

“Stephen Colbert, the guy you've seen here every night for nine years will be gone. All you'll have left of me is this book," Colbert said while holding a copy of his book. "So pick up 'America Again' in paperback for a loved one. Or for a hated one.”

While it’s sad to see such an iconic show end, it couldn’t be for a better reason. As reported back in April, Colbert will be taking over for David Letterman at the “Late Show” after the host’s retirement. Letterman has yet to announce when his final show will be, but Colbert is expected to host sometime in 2015.

The Wrap speculates that Colbert might launch his version of “Late Show” in September to coincide with the fall TV premiere season.

“Twenty-four hours before the show ends, I’ll probably be a wreck,” Colbert told TVLine in August. “But right now, I’m just really enjoying doing the show as much as I ever have.”