Stephen Colbert opened Thursday's episode of "The Late Show" with a significant announcement about one of his final shows following CBS's cancellation of the program. He revealed the identity of one of his last guests, prompting enthusiastic cheers and applause from the New York City audience.
Obama Set to Appear
"Folks, before we get started, I have a quick but exciting announcement," Colbert said. "Tuesday, May 5, here on 'The Late Show,' in his first interview from the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, I will be sitting down with former President Barack Obama."
This decision could be interpreted as a subtle jab at President Donald Trump, who publicly celebrated the show's cancellation. Obama has previously appeared on the program for a pre-taped interview in 2020.
Colbert's Post-Show Plans
Colbert addressed the various theories about his future after "The Late Show," joking that they range from "I'm moving to CNN to I'm announcing a massive wildlife rescue program to I'm running for president of the United States." While the latter idea sparked another round of cheers at the Ed Sullivan Theater, Colbert has already secured his dream job. The "Lord of the Rings" mega-fan revealed last month that he and his son are co-writing a feature film installment in the franchise.
Colbert couldn't resist poking fun at the rumors, adding, "I can tell you tonight, I can reveal right now, that all of those are partially true. Next year, I will be president of an animal sanctuary dedicated to caring for the rare Blitzer Wolf." The audience erupted when an image appeared of Colbert bottle-feeding CNN host Wolf Blitzer.
Trump's Criticism of Late-Night Hosts
Colbert and his colleagues have faced criticism from Trump, who in recent months called for Jimmy Kimmel to be taken "off the air," said he would be "finding out" about Seth Meyers' contract with NBC, and predicted that Jimmy Fallon "will be gone" soon.
The "Late Show" episode featuring Obama airs at 11:35 p.m. ET on May 5 on CBS.
