The Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City fell silent for the last time as host Stephen Colbert signed off from *The Late Show* on Tuesday evening, bringing an end to the franchise’s 33-year CBS run. The final episode aired just days after Colbert’s emotional farewell monologue, which drew a standing ovation from a studio audience still wiping away tears.
Colbert, who took over in September 2015 after David Letterman’s retirement, leaves behind a legacy of sharp wit and cultural commentary that defined an era of late-night television. The show’s cancellation was confirmed last summer, with CBS citing financial pressures amid a shifting media landscape.
Key Points
- ✅ Colbert hosted *The Late Show* for nine seasons after taking over from David Letterman
- ⚡ CBS confirmed in summer 2024 that the show would end, calling it a financial decision
- 💡 The finale drew widespread praise for Colbert’s heartfelt farewell and enduring impact
Fans camped for days outside the theater, clutching vintage *Late Show* merchandise and sharing memories of Colbert’s signature monologues. Among the highlights of the final broadcast was a surprise appearance by former *Daily Show* correspondent Steve Carell, who joined Colbert for a duet of “Carpool Karaoke” moments before the final commercial break.
📋 By The Numbers
- 9 seasons — Colbert’s tenure as host of *The Late Show*
- 1,120 episodes — Total count of *Late Show* broadcasts under Colbert’s leadership
The show’s abrupt end marks the latest in a string of late-night casualties, as streaming platforms and shifting audience habits force networks to rethink traditional programming. CBS declined to comment on whether Colbert would return to the network in another capacity, but industry insiders suggest he may explore opportunities in streaming or independent production.
💡 Pro Tip
For late-night fans seeking Colbert’s next move, keep an eye on streaming platforms—rumors suggest he’s in talks with at least two major services for a new project.
Colbert’s departure leaves a void in the late-night lineup, where only Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers remain as holdovers from the pre-2020 era. His final episode drew 4.2 million viewers, according to preliminary Nielsen data, a figure that underscores his enduring appeal even as the medium evolves.
| Late-Night Host | Tenure Start | Final Episode Viewers (millions) |
|---|---|---|
| David Letterman | 1993 | 5.1 |
| Stephen Colbert | 2015 | 4.2 |
| Jimmy Fallon | 2014 | 3.8 |
The *Late Show* finale also served as a cultural moment, with clips from Colbert’s final monologue trending globally on social media. Critics praised the episode for its balance of humor and sincerity, noting that Colbert’s ability to blend satire with genuine emotion had defined his reign.
- Colbert’s emotional farewell — The host delivered a tearful monologue addressing the show’s legacy and his gratitude to fans.
- Surprise musical performance — Steve Carell joined Colbert for a rendition of “Carpool Karaoke,” a nod to their days on *The Daily Show*.
- Final commercial break — The episode closed with a montage of Colbert’s greatest moments, set to a cover of “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac.
As the credits rolled, Colbert walked offstage one last time, leaving behind a generation of viewers who grew up with his sharp commentary and infectious charm. Industry analysts predict his next move could shape the future of late-night television—or redefine it entirely.
