In a poignant farewell to one of late-night television’s most influential figures, Jimmy Fallon has announced that The Tonight Show will not feature a new episode on May 21. This date marks the finale of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which is concluding its 11-season journey on CBS. Fallon’s decision to air a repeat episode instead demonstrates what he describes as “late-night solidarity” with his fellow hosts.
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Fallon’s move comes on the heels of Jimmy Kimmel’s decision to also refrain from airing new content on the same night. Kimmel’s ABC program, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, will follow suit, opting for a repeat episode as a tribute to Colbert’s significant impact on the landscape of late-night television. Kimmel’s choice to pause the Night Show reflects a shared respect among the hosts, recognising the contributions of their peer during his tenure.
Colbert’s departure, confirmed during a July 17, 2025 episode, was a surprise to many viewers and industry insiders alike. CBS issued a statement at the time, citing the cancellation as a “purely financial decision” amid the increasingly challenging dynamics of late-night programming. Prior to this announcement, Colbert had been vocal regarding CBS’s parent company, Paramount, notably criticising a hefty settlement involving former President Donald Trump.
Colbert took over hosting duties on The Late Show in September 2015, following the retirement of David Letterman. Since then, he has become renowned for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on cultural and political issues. Fallon’s support for his friend has been unwavering, marked notably by a heartfelt performance in March where he sang Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” in honour of Colbert.
In a spirit of camaraderie, Fallon and Kimmel have joined forces on several occasions. Most recently, they, alongside other late-night hosts like Seth Meyers and John Oliver, made an appearance on The Late Show to deliver support and humour in the wake of Colbert’s show being cancelled. During this episode, the quartet teased a return of their podcast, Strike Force Five, which had briefly garnered attention during the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike.
The final instalment of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is set to air on May 21 at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS, wrapping up a decade-long run that has left a significant mark on late-night television. In the days leading up to this farewell, Colbert’s show continues to broadcast its regular episodes, sending viewers off with a collection of memorable segments and heartfelt moments.
As the late-night landscape navigates this transition, it evokes a sense of nostalgia that resonates with audiences. The friendships and alliances formed among these hosts underline the unique bond they share amidst fierce competition in a crowded entertainment environment. The collective decision to pause their regularly scheduled programming is an uncommon gesture, underscoring the mutual respect prevalent among these late-night peers.
As Colbert prepares to bid farewell, his influence is likely to endure in the industry he has shaped. Late-night TV remains a platform not just for entertainment, but also for reflection on societal issues, and Stephen Colbert has been a key figure in that discourse. The heartfelt gestures from Fallon and Kimmel serve as a testament to his lasting impact, marking the end of an era in late-night television.
Colbert’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of hosts and comedians, reminding them of the power of humour in addressing the complexities of modern life. As the final curtain falls on The Late Show, fans will undoubtedly reflect on the unforgettable moments, sharp satire, and the genuine connections that have defined Colbert’s time in the spotlight.