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Colbert's Final 'Late Show': Joy, Tears, and Wormholes
22 May
Summary
- Final episode celebrated end of an era for late night TV.
- McCartney made surprise appearance, gifted photo.
- Interdimensional wormhole skit symbolized show's end.
Stephen Colbert concluded "The Late Show" on CBS with a final broadcast on May 22, 2026, that artfully combined humor, sentiment, and homage. The episode served as a celebration of his tenure, marking a significant shift in late night television.
Colbert expressed gratitude to his staff and the audience, calling the show a "joy machine." A montage of iconic late night hosts preceded his final walk on stage, met with a standing ovation. Despite the network's stated financial reasons for cancellation, the show's end followed Colbert's on-air criticism of the parent company.
The final episode, produced as usual, included celebrity cameos from Bryan Cranston, Paul Rudd, and Tim Meadows. A surprise appearance by Sir Paul McCartney, who gifted Colbert a photo of The Beatles' 1964 debut on the same stage, added a deeply personal touch. McCartney reflected on America as the "land of the free."
A symbolic, interdimensional wormhole skit, explained by Neil deGrasse Tyson, visually represented the show's cancellation. Jon Stewart appeared to encourage Colbert to embrace the change with laughter, embodying the host's characteristic resilience. Fellow late night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, John Oliver, and Jimmy Fallon offered solidarity backstage.
Elijah Wood also made a cameo. The show concluded with a powerful performance of Elvis Costello's "Jump Up" in a symbolic desolate space with Jon Batiste and Louis Cato. Colbert then joined McCartney for a rendition of The Beatles' "Hello, Goodbye," accompanied by the staff and audience, creating a scene of pure joy and unity.
