Colbert Shines in Surprise TV Comeback Amid Late Show Cancellation

In the weeks leading up to October 13, 2025, Stephen Colbert is set to make his debut on the TV series Elsbeth this weekend. Despite the recent cancellation of his long-running late-night talk show The Late Show, Emmy-winning actress Carrie Preston is full of praise for Colbert's acting abilities.

Preston, who stars as the titular character Elsbeth, revealed that the show's producers had been working for months to get Colbert on the program. The script for the Season 3 premiere episode, titled "Yes, And...", was specifically written with Colbert in mind to play the role of a fictional late-night host named Scotty Bristol.

Even with the announcement of The Late Show's impending end just weeks before filming, Colbert was fully committed and prepared for his guest appearance. Preston described him as "such a great actor" who was "fully game and so happy to be there." The episode also features other notable guest stars, including Amy Sedaris as Colbert's on-screen wife and head writer, and Andy Richter as a late-night show sidekick.

The Elsbeth team was initially "very nervous" about working with Colbert, but their concerns were quickly alleviated by his professionalism and enthusiasm. Preston, who has been a longtime fan of Sedaris, was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with her as well. Overall, the timing of Colbert's appearance on Elsbeth seems to have worked out perfectly, providing viewers with a delightful surprise amid the recent cancellation of his own late-night program.