MUMBAI: The Late-night television comedian David Letterman has extended his contract with the CBS network in a deal that will keep his Late Show on the network through the fall of 2010.

Letterman hosted his original show, Late Night on NBC in the time slot immediately following The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and was long considered a likely successor to Carson.

CBS Corp chief executive Les Moonves said, "We are truly honored that one of the most revered and talented entertainers of our time will continue to call CBS home."

Letterman, who began his network TV career on NBC, will celebrate 25 years in late-night comedy this coming February. Letterman came to CBS in 1993 after 11 years on NBC, asserts an official release.

CBS shares rose 1.5 per cent to close at $30.20 on 4 December after the announcement, adds the release.