David Letterman to appear on Late Night's anniversary special

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David Letterman is returning to 'Late Night' for the show's 40th anniversary special.

The 74-year-old comedian launched the show in 1982, before moving to CBS to host 'The Late Show' in 1993, and he's now preparing to make a return on Feb. 1.

Seth Meyers - who has hosted 'Late Night' since 2014 - said in a video: "The 40th anniversary is next Tuesday, and to celebrate, my guest that evening will be the man who started it all, David Letterman."

Seth can't wait for the veteran TV star to return to the programme.

He said: "Now that is a show that would make college-age Seth Meyers very happy. Also, current Seth Meyers."

Seth has previously credited Letterman for the show's success, admitting it "wouldn't exist" without him.

He explained: "This show, 'Late Night,' this is David Letterman's show. And if it wasn't for David Letterman, this show wouldn't exist. And if it wasn't for David Letterman, I wouldn't be here. And if I wasn't here, you'd just be an audience of people in an empty studio ... it's incredible to be part of that legacy."

Letterman, 74, walked away from 'The Late Show' in 2015, and previously admitted that he initially missed working on the program.

The TV star - who has an 18-year-old son called Harry - said: "The first year I sure did [miss late night]. You get into a rhythm so I miss that. But the best part is, I get to do stuff with my son."

Letterman explained that he wants to spend more quality time with his son while he's still able to.

He joked: "Look at me - how much longer am I going to be around? I want to be the best friend. But he’s not keen on me being the best friend."