Stephen Colbert bid farewell to The Late Show after 11 seasons and 1,800 episodes on May 21, with a star-studded finale that included Ryan Reynolds, Paul McCartney, and Elvis Costello.
Reynolds' Surprise Appearance
Ryan Reynolds was among the celebrities who attended the final taping at the Ed Sullivan Theatre. During the show, Colbert pointed out the Vancouver-born actor in the audience and joked that Reynolds would not be his last guest. Reynolds quipped, "Ouchie," adding, "Well, you know, in that case, I'm just happy to be here, pay my respects to one of the world's greatest entertainers on his last night at the Ed Sullivan Theater." When Colbert thanked him, Reynolds corrected, "I was talking about your keyboardist Corey Bernhard," and embraced him.
Musical Highlights
The finale featured numerous musical performances. Colbert joined Elvis Costello, former bandleader Jon Batiste, and current bandleader Louis Cato for a rendition of Costello's "Jump Up." Later, Colbert and Paul McCartney performed a rousing version of The Beatles' "Hello Goodbye," with the audience, crew, and family dancing on stage.
Guest Appearances
Other guests included Tig Notaro, Jon Stewart, and late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, Seth Meyers, and Jimmy Fallon. Kimmel said, "We came to say, we're going to miss you. Late night is not going to be the same without you." Meyers added, "Without you, where will Americans turn to see a middle-aged white man make jokes about the news?"
The Final Moments
The show ended with Colbert and McCartney at the theatre's electrical panel, where McCartney turned off the power, symbolizing the end of an era for the Late Show franchise, which had taped at the Ed Sullivan Theatre for nearly 33 years.
Behind the Cancellation
CBS cancelled Colbert's top-rated show last July, citing financial reasons. However, many fans and friends believed it was retribution for Colbert's criticism of President Donald Trump. The cancellation came as Paramount sought FCC approval for its merger with Skydance Media. Trump commented on Truth Social, calling Colbert "no talent, no ratings, no life." Colbert did not mention Trump during his final episode.
