The announcement is sad but true.

David Letterman will be retiring from hosting Late Night With David Letterman. The somewhat surprising news was announced during a taping of his show today.

The final episode of Late Night will air sometime in 2015.

“I just want to reiterate my thanks for the support from the network, all of the people who have worked here, all of the people in the theater, all the people on the staff, everybody at home, thank you very much,” the 66-year-old said after breaking the news to his audience.

Letterman is the longest serving late night host in television history.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9eYkpgeeI8

Celebrity fans broadcasted their thoughts to Twitter in response to Letterman’s decision to leave Late Night.

David @Letterman announced he's retiring in 2015. It's been 31 incredible years. Television won't be the same without you, Dave.

— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) April 3, 2014

A half dozen of my proudest career moments, appearing on Late Show w/ David Letterman. Thx Dave for my network debut. #BroadcastingLegend.

— Dane Cook (@DaneCook) April 4, 2014

There are more than 10 reasons #DavidLetterman will be missed. pic.twitter.com/UoLVRZduF7

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) April 3, 2014

Witty writer and actress Lena Dunham dedicated three tweets to Letterman. As usual, they were fairly entertaining.

I love Letterman but I am really excited about what this could mean for the diversification of late night. Trying not to be a pessimist…

— Lena Dunham (@lenadunham) April 3, 2014

Take the ball and run with it, CBS! But I'm putting in an early vote for @unfoRETTAble

— Lena Dunham (@lenadunham) April 3, 2014

Obvi will miss Letterman and his gorgeous tooth scenario/general brilliance

— Lena Dunham (@lenadunham) April 3, 2014

It’s believed that the longtime host made the decision to leave so he could spend more quality time with his family.

Jimmy Fallon recently took over Jay Leno’s hosting spot on the Tonight Show after he finally decided to retire. While we’re all digging Fallon’s goofy antics, it’s hard to imagine someone else filling in for Letterman.

Who do you think Letterman will choose to fill his late night shoes? Does Jimmy Kimmel have a shot at the gig?

Leave your comments below and stay turned for more updates on who will be chosen for the coveted spot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7rOSo6e2cM

Image Via YouTube