Stars have paid tribute to retiring TV host David Letterman.
Celebrities including Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ricky Gervais and Jimmy Kimmel took to Twitter last night (03.04.14) following the veteran chat show host’s announcement that he will be quitting his flagship show next year, praising the 66-year-old star for his contribution to journalism.
‘Buffy The Vampire Slayer’ actress Sarah posted a montage of pictures from her visits to ‘The Late Show with David Letterman’, captioning the images, "You are a class act that will be truly missed #legend."
‘Father of the Bride’ funnyman Steve Martin appeared shocked by the news and thanked the beloved host for inviting him on his show to promote his films.
He enthused: "Wow, @Letterman retiring. He’s been a significant force in my "later" career. Thanks, Dave!"
Ricky Gervais also praised David, describing him as, "a king, a king-maker, and probably the man most to blame for inflicting me on America. See you soon."
Meanwhile, David’s chat show contemporaries also paid tribute to their friend with moving messages.
Ellen DeGeneres wrote: "David @Letterman announced he’s retiring in 2015. It’s been 31 incredible years. Television won’t be the same without you, Dave."
Fellow up-start presenter Jimmy Kimmel shared a simple and direct tribute, writing on the social media site: "David Letterman is the best there is and ever was."
However, ‘Girls’ star Lena Dunham was more critical in her response, revealing she was excited to see what the announcement meant for the future of television.
She said: "I love Letterman but I am really excited about what this could mean for the diversification of late night."
David announced he was quitting by telling CBS Chairman and CEO Leslie Moonves, "It’s been great, you’ve been great, and the network has been great, but I’m retiring."
Last year, he overtook his friend and mentor Johnny Carson as the longest-serving late-night talk show host in TV history with a career spanning 31 years.
Stars pay tribute to David Letterman
