Stephen Colbert Packs His Final Late Show Episodes With An A-List Farewell Lineup
Guest lineup revealed: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will go out with a bang, stacking its final four episodes with star power as the 11-season staple signs off nearly a year after CBS pulled the plug.
Well, it’s the end of a late-night era. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is officially on its way out, closing the curtain after 11 seasons — and frankly, CBS didn’t exactly hide the reason behind the axe: money. That’s right, after almost a year since the cancellation announcement, Colbert and his team have just four episodes left before the final bow.
If you’re wondering who’s making the guest list for these last big nights, they’re pulling out all the stops. Think big names, nostalgia, and at least a couple 'wait, really?' surprises.
Who's Swinging By For The Farewell?
Let’s get right to the star power. Jon Stewart — yes, the Daily Show veteran and former Comedy Central co-conspirator — will show up for the goodbye tour. Steven Spielberg is on the roster too (not exactly a guy who does the late-night circuit every week). On the music side, David Byrne and Bruce Springsteen will deliver some final live moments, because Colbert apparently refuses to go quietly.
The producers are also teasing additional 'special guests,' so there’s likely more up their sleeve than even this stacked line-up.
Final Week Breakdown
- Monday, May 18: Something called The Worst of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. For what it’s worth, this is reportedly not a clip show — they seem almost proud of that. Interpret as you will.
- Tuesday, May 19: Jon Stewart and Steven Spielberg drop by, with David Byrne teaming up with Colbert for a 'special performance.' What constitutes a 'special performance' is anyone’s guess, but they rarely disappoint in the weird department.
- Wednesday, May 20: Colbert tackles his now-notorious 'Colbert Questionert,' likely grilling a parade of surprise guests. Bruce Springsteen also hits the stage, because of course he does.
- Thursday, May 21: The entire show wraps up for good with the series finale. Can’t get simpler or more bittersweet than that.
A (Brief) Look Back
For any newcomers or those who forgot, Stephen Colbert took over The Late Show on September 8, 2015, following David Letterman’s legendary run. Every episode has been broadcast from Manhattan’s Ed Sullivan Theater. Colbert was more than just the face — he was also an executive producer and as hands-on as you get for this type of gig.
The show snagged two Emmy Awards out of a whopping 33 nominations — not a bad haul, especially considering how cutthroat the late-night wars can be. It picked up an Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series, so it wasn’t just the audience who thought something special was happening in that theater.
'Stephen Colbert brings his signature satire and comedy to late night, where he talks with an eclectic mix of guests about what is new and relevant in the world.'
Somehow, that official bit from the show’s own description just about sums up the last eleven years. Love him or not, Colbert’s about to host a final week packed with legendary names and a heavy dose of unpredictability. If you’ve ever watched, now’s the time to tune in — and see how a modern late-night giant says goodbye.