Craig Ferguson entered the world of late night comedy following a diverse and eclectic career that encompasses film, television and the stage. Since taking the helm of The Late Late Show on January 3, 2005, the show has set all-time viewer records and achieved the highest ratings since the show's inception in 1995.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Ferguson started in the entertainment industry as a drummer for some of the worst punk bands in the U.K., a profession he held for several years. Following his musical stint, he began bartending in a local pub in Glasgow, where he was introduced to Michael Boyd, the artistic director of the Tron Theatre in Glasgow, who persuaded Ferguson to give acting a go. After several low-paying acting gigs, Ferguson discovered he had a knack for comedy and was soon the star of his own BBC television show, "The Ferguson Theory."

Ferguson brought his act to America in 1995 to star with Betty White and Marie Osmond in the short-lived television series "Maybe This Time." He then joined "The Drew Carey Show," playing Drew Carey's boss, Nigel Wick, from 1996 to 2003.

Ferguson has written the feature films "The Big Tease" and "Saving Grace." In 2003, Ferguson made his directorial debut with "I'll Be There," which he also wrote and starred in. "I'll Be There" went on to receive the Audience Award for Best Film at the Aspen, Dallas and Valencia film festivals. He was also named Best New Director at the Napa Valley Film Festival.

In April 2006, Ferguson debuted his first novel entitled "Between The Bridge and The River," which became a critically acclaimed bestseller. Ferguson's memoir, "American On Purpose," is an achingly funny account of living the American dream as he journeys from a small town in Scotland to the entertainment capital of the world.

Ferguson was sworn in as a United States Citizen in February 2008. He currently lives in Los Angeles. His birth date is May 17.

Follow Craig Ferguson on Twitter: @CraigyFerg