Stephen Colbert bid farewell to his tenure as host of *The Late Show* on Thursday, 21 May, with an emotional final episode that resonated with both fans and fellow entertainers. The longstanding CBS late-night programme, which Colbert began leading in September 2015 after succeeding David Letterman, has enjoyed a significant run of nearly a decade.
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The farewell episode brought back a number of musical icons including Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello, and Jon Batiste. These artists joined Colbert in a lively sing-along of The Beatles’ classic “Hello, Goodbye,” creating a memorable send-off in the show’s concluding moments. The enthusiastic audience even took to the stage to join in during the song’s well-known refrain, making for a fittingly joyful conclusion to a show that has been a staple of late-night television.
Memorable segments throughout the episode highlighted Colbert’s humorous wit and charming rapport with guests. In a particularly whimsical moment, a clip featured Colbert and McCartney at a massive light switch outside the Ed Sullivan Theater, which was an iconic venue for The Beatles during their early years. When they flipped the switch, visual effects transformed the theatre into a diminutive representation within a snow globe, evoking nostalgia for viewers.
As the theme music played, the episode concluded with a tender moment featuring Colbert and his beloved dog, Benny. The host, after a significant chapter in his career, gently called out, “Come on Benny, let’s go,” symbolically closing the door on his long-standing show.
In July 2025, Colbert had revealed his intention to conclude *The Late Show*, citing the decision as “purely financial” in the face of challenges within the late-night landscape. Reflecting on his time, Colbert expressed immense gratitude for his decade-long ‘home’. “I am extraordinarily, deeply grateful to the 200 people who work here,” he remarked, emphasising the collaborative nature of the show. His affection for the team and his desire to share meaningful moments with viewers reflected a deep connection cultivated over many years.
During his final week of episodes, Colbert welcomed a star-studded line-up that included former *Daily Show* colleague Jon Stewart and renowned figures like director Steven Spielberg, musician Bruce Springsteen, and artist David Byrne. Each of these visits underscored the respect and admiration Colbert has garnered within the entertainment industry.
In a preview of his send-off, Colbert conveyed a simple yet profound hope: “I hope they laughed. I hope they felt better at the end of the day.” This sentiment resonated strongly with his audience, who looked to Colbert’s show as a comforting end to their daily routines. With the responsibility of being the last voice before their viewers retired for the night, he strived to leave them with a sense of joy.
As the credits rolled on *The Late Show*, many fans reflected on the impact Colbert had on late-night television and the cultural landscape during his tenure. His blend of sharp humour, political commentary, and heartfelt moments made him a unique presence, setting him apart from his contemporaries.
As Stephen Colbert closes this chapter of his career, the legacy of *The Late Show* continues to resonate, shaping the future of late-night programming. With his signature humour and compassionate approach, Colbert leaves behind a remarkable body of work that will surely be missed by many.