Colbert hosts "The Late Show" one last time tonight as franchise ends
"The Late Show" host Stephen Colbert is marking the end of an iconic late-night franchise on CBS.
www.cbsnews.comHere’s what’s known about Stephen Colbert’s final show as of late May 2026.
Direct answer
- Stephen Colbert’s final episode of The Late Show aired on May 21, 2026.
Context and key details
- CBS originally announced in 2025 that The Late Show would end after the 2025-2026 season, describing the decision as financial in nature. This set the stage for a farewell run through the spring of 2026, culminating in a finale on May 21, 2026.[3][4][5]
- Leading up to the finale, Colbert’s guests and segments were framed as part of a historically long-running late-night franchise closure, with notable appearances and tributes surrounding the finale, and some media outlets noting the decision’s reception among viewers and critics.[4][3]
What happened around the finale
- The penultimate week included high-profile appearances and special performances (e.g., Bruce Springsteen was reported to perform on the final stretch, and classic segments like The Colbert Questionert were featured), with expectations of an extended finale runtime.[2]
- On the night of the finale, coverage highlighted the end of an era for CBS’s late-night slate, with CBS confirming the end of The Late Show franchise and noting the decision as financial rather than performance-based.[5][3]
Context and reactions
- Reactions to the decision and the finale included commentary on whether the move reflected broader trends in late-night television and public commentary about Colbert’s role and influence, though CBS framed it as a strategic business decision in a challenging advertising environment.[3][5]
Illustration
- A brief timeline:
- July 2025: CBS announces The Late Show will end in 2026.
- May 21, 2026: The Late Show final episode airs.
- Post-finale: Media commentary considers Colbert’s legacy and the implications for CBS’s late-night lineup.[4][3]
Would you like a concise timeline graphic or a quick recap of the finale’s notable moments and guest appearances? I can prepare a short, shareable summary with key moments and guests.
Citations
- The finale date and end-of-show confirmation:[5][3][4]
- Details about final episodes and guests:[2]