Stephen Colbert, the beloved host of The Late Show, has been making headlines with a flurry of affectionate moments as his tenure on the programme draws to a close. During a recent episode on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Colbert shared kisses with not only Julia Louis-Dreyfus but also with Pedro Pascal, showcasing the camaraderie and light-hearted spirit that has characterised his time on air.
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Colbert’s kissing spree began the night before when he had fellow late-night talk show host Jimmy Fallon on the show. The two engaged in a humorous conversation that led to a playful on-screen smooch, adding another memorable moment to their long-standing friendship. Fallon, known for his jovial disposition, was joined by other hosts, including Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers, for a lively discussion about celebrity interactions on camera.
On the following episode, Colbert welcomed Julia Louis-Dreyfus, famed for her roles in iconic series like Veep and Seinfeld. As she took her seat next to Colbert in the Ed Sullivan Theater, she cheekily requested that the producers play a clip where Colbert listed the names of guests he had kissed on the show, which included notable personalities such as Sally Field and Helen Mirren.
The atmosphere grew light-hearted as Louis-Dreyfus playfully remarked that “no one’s watching” as they leaned in closer for a kiss, with humorous references to their respective spouses adding to the fun. Following their peck, the audience erupted in applause, and the actress jokingly suggested that they should redo the previous episode for a fresh start, highlighting the camaraderie between the two entertainers.
Later that same evening, Colbert continued the affection when Pedro Pascal, star of The Mandalorian, joined him on set. Pascal, eager not to miss out on the fun, cheekily signalled towards Colbert’s lips, prompting another fleeting kiss that further amused the audience. “I got jealous,” Pascal quipped, to which Colbert responded that his lips would soon be “free” for more kisses, reflecting the light-hearted banter that has endeared him to viewers.
These whimsical moments come as The Late Show approaches its final air date on Thursday, May 21. Colbert, who has been hosting since September 2015, announced the cancellation of the programme in July 2025, with CBS citing financial challenges as the primary reason for the decision. The news sparked reactions from fans and critics alike, as Colbert has played a prominent role in shaping late-night television.
Though Colbert’s tenure will soon come to an end, he has left an indelible mark on the landscape of late-night talk shows. His signature blend of wit, satire, and heartfelt engagement with both guests and the audience has earned him acclaim and a devoted fan base. The upcoming week will see a series of special episodes as Colbert bids farewell to the show that has become a staple in American homes.
As the clock ticks down to the final broadcast, viewers can expect a celebration of the memorable moments and guests that have graced The Late Show during Colbert’s run. From political satire to touching interviews, he has successfully navigated the complexities of contemporary issues while keeping the format lively and approachable.
Colbert’s final episode is sure to be a reflection of his journey over the years—a blend of humour, nostalgia, and perhaps a few more surprise kisses. Until that day arrives, fans can enjoy the remaining episodes, which will continue to air on CBS at 11:35 p.m. ET.