Stephen Colbert Bids Farewell: Inside the Final Episodes of 'The Late Show'
A Decade of Late-Night History Ends
After nearly ten years at the helm, Stephen Colbert is signing off as host of The Late Show. The final episode airs this Thursday, marking the end of a significant chapter in late-night television. Filmed at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater, the show was CBS’s flagship late-night program since its 1993 debut with David Letterman. Colbert took over in 2015, bringing with him the sharp wit and political satire honed on The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. His pointed monologues during Donald Trump’s presidency resonated strongly with liberal audiences, catapulting his popularity.
Why the Show Is Ending
In July, Paramount—CBS’s parent company—announced that the current season, which wraps up on May 21, would be the show’s last. The official explanation was a financial decision, but many observers remain unconvinced. Colbert had been an outspoken critic of Trump, and some speculate that political pressure contributed to the cancellation. The announcement came shortly after Paramount reached a $16 million settlement with Trump over a 60 Minutes interview broadcast during the 2024 election cycle, and as the company pursued the merger that created Paramount Skydance.
David Letterman, Colbert’s predecessor, openly questioned the network’s reasoning. “He was dumped because the people selling the network to Skydance said, ‘Oh no, there’s not going to be any trouble with that guy. We’re going to take care of the show. We’re just going to throw that into the deal. When will the ink on the check dry?’” Letterman told The New York Times. “I’m just going to go on record as saying: They’re lying.”
What’s in Store for the Final Week
CBS has revealed the lineup for Colbert’s last five shows, featuring a mix of superstar guests, musical performances, and signature segments.
Monday: The Worst of The Late Show (But Not a Clip Show)
The network jokingly billed Monday’s episode as “The Worst of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” but clarified it won’t be a nostalgic clip reel. Instead, viewers can expect all-new content.
Tuesday: Jon Stewart, Steven Spielberg, and David Byrne
Tuesday brings a powerful reunion: Colbert’s mentor and fellow comedian Jon Stewart appears, alongside legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg. The episode will also feature a joint musical performance by Colbert and David Byrne.
Wednesday: Bruce Springsteen and the Final “Colbert Questionert”
On Wednesday, music icon Bruce Springsteen performs. The show will also air the last edition of “The Colbert Questionert,” a recurring segment where guests answer a quirky set of questions.
Thursday: Final Episode Guests Still Under Wraps
As of now, CBS has not announced the guests for the finale. In a show of respect, fellow late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon have both decided to air reruns on Thursday night.
A Special Reunion: Strike Force Five
Last week, Colbert hosted a reunion of the Strike Force Five—the informal group of late-night hosts that included Kimmel, Fallon, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver. During the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike, they joined forces to support their writers and keep their shows’ staffs paid. The group came together for a candid conversation on air, sharing memories and reflecting on the past few years.
Looking Ahead
With Colbert’s departure, the future of the 11:35 PM timeslot remains uncertain. CBS has not announced a replacement, and the network may consider a new format or host. For now, fans can tune in to witness the end of an era—one defined by sharp political commentary, heartfelt moments, and a singular comedic voice. Whether the cancellation was purely financial or politically motivated, the legacy of Colbert’s Late Show will endure in late-night history.