Craig Ferguson to Leave The Late Late Show

Let a round of replacement rumors begin anew.

Craig Ferguson told his studio audience this afternoon that he will depart step down as host of The Late Late Show in December.

"CBS and I are not getting divorced, we are ‘consciously uncoupling,’ but we will still spend holidays together and share custody of the fake horse and robot skeleton, both of whom we love very much," Ferguson joked.

Said Nina Tassler (Chairman, CBS Entertainment) in response to the news:

"During his 10 years as host, Craig has elevated CBS to new creative and competitive heights at 12:30. He infused the broadcast with tremendous energy, unique comedy, insightful interviews and some of the most heartfelt monologues seen on television."

Earlier this month, David Letterman announced his departure from The Late Show, effective some time next year; Stephen Colbert was named replacement a few days later, with Ferguson never really under consideration.

Added Tassler:

"Craig’s versatile talents as a writer, producer, actor and comedian speak to his great days ahead. While we’ll miss Craig and can't thank him enough for his contributions to both the show and the Network, we respect his decision to move on, and we look forward to celebrating his final broadcasts during the next eight months."

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.