David Letterman's final Late Show: Jimmy Kimmel gives tearful tribute to idol – and tells viewers to watch Letterman instead

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An emotional Jimmy Kimmel held back tears as he sent off his idol David Letterman – and even encouraged his viewers to switch stations to watch the finale instead of his own show.

Mr Kimmel made sure the Jimmy Kimmel Live audience knew exactly how much Mr Letterman impacted his life and career.

"I learned almost nothing in college, but watching Late Night, not only did I learn everything from Dave, but the reason I have this show is because the executives at ABC saw me when I was a guest on Dave's show and hired me to host this show. I want to thank Dave," he said.

Mr Kimmel encouraged his viewers to watch Mr Letterman's finale instead of his own show on Wednesday night, stating he would be airing a rerun rather than a new show.

"Please do not watch it, especially if you're a young person and you don't understand what all the fuss is about — Dave is the best and you should see him," he said

Former Colbert Show host Stephen Colbert will take over for Letterman beginning 8 September.