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Colbert Show Almost Had Elvis Costello as Bandleader
5 Oct
Summary
- Elvis Costello was considered for Colbert's bandleader role.
- Bandmate's location in France made the gig unworkable.
- Costello retired from TV after appearing on Colbert's finale.
Elvis Costello recently shared that he was considered for the inaugural bandleader position on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in 2015. He impulsively offered his services when asked for advice by Colbert.
Costello cited The Roots' success as a reason for his interest, believing it could offer stability for his band. However, logistical challenges, specifically keyboardist Steve Nieve living in Paris, made the prospect impossible.
Costello ultimately believes he would have been fired quickly by the network. He made a final appearance on Colbert's finale, performing "Jump Up" with Colbert and Louis Cato, and later with Paul McCartney.
This appearance marked Costello's retirement from television. He explained that the current media landscape, driven by commercial and political forces, is not something he wishes to be involved in.
