Stephen Colbert ends ‘The Late Show’ after 11 seasons

Published May 22, 2026 13:56

Tanat Kozhmanov

Tanat Kozhmanov

t.kozhmanov@kursiv.media
Photo: REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz, photo editor: Dastan Shanay

Stephen Colbert wrapped up CBS’s «The Late Show» with a star-studded farewell episode, bringing the program’s 33-year run to a close, The Associated Press reported.

Unlike some late-night hosts who opted for quieter finales, Colbert’s farewell featured celebrity guests, musical performances and surreal comedy segments.

The finale, for example, featured Paul McCartney performing «Hello, Goodbye» with Colbert, Elvis Costello, former bandleader Jon Batiste and the show’s house band.

Throughout the show, Colbert reflected on his 11 years as host and thanked viewers for their support. The bittersweet episode also featured appearances by Bryan Cranston, Paul Rudd, Tim Meadows, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers and John Oliver.

Last year, CBS announced that «The Late Show» would end for financial reasons despite leading late-night ratings. Colbert later questioned the decision after criticizing Paramount’s settlement with President Donald Trump over a «60 Minutes» lawsuit.

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