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Colbert's Finale Shatters Records: Most-Watched Ever!
23 May
Summary
- The final episode drew 6.74 million viewers, a new record.
- This viewership significantly surpassed the show's Q1 2026 average.
- The 33-year franchise concluded with a historic television event.
The series finale of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert achieved historic viewership on Thursday, officially becoming the most-watched weeknight episode in the program's history. Early figures indicate that the farewell broadcast attracted approximately 6.74 million viewers.
This audience significantly outpaced the show's 2026 first-quarter average of about 2.69 million viewers. The finale's success also surpassed the viewership of Colbert's own 2015 debut, which had drawn 6.55 million viewers. The conclusion marked a significant moment for a 33-year-old franchise and late-night television.
The show's historic ending generated substantial public interest. The final episode's impressive numbers highlight the enduring appeal and cultural impact of Stephen Colbert's tenure.
