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Stephen Colbert’s final ‘Late Show’ airs May 21 at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS, ending an 11-year run that transformed late-night television. The beloved host will say goodbye to millions alongside political icons, comedy legends, and fellow late-night hosts in a spectacular final week.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Episode: Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS
- Duration: 11 seasons hosting, since taking over from David Letterman in 2015
- A-List Guests: Barack Obama, David Letterman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Pedro Pascal confirmed
- Replacement Show: Byron Allen’s “Comics Unleashed” takes the time slot
End of an Era After a Historic Decade
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has dominated the late-night landscape since 2015, when Colbert inherited the iconic slot from David Letterman. His final broadcast on May 21 marks the end of an era that redefined satirical late-night television. The show built a devoted audience through sharp comedy, musical performances, and frank conversations with newsmakers.
The cancellation decision came as a financial move by CBS, surprising fans who regarded the show as the network’s crown jewel. Colbert has addressed the ending with grace, telling audiences he is not thrilled but respects the decision.
Stephen Colbert’s last Late Show airs May 21 at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS
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An Unforgettable Final Week Lineup
CBS announced a star-studded final week featuring some of Colbert’s most iconic moments and guests. Former President Barack Obama will appear, alongside David Letterman, his predecessor and mentor. Other confirmed guests include Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Pedro Pascal, Tom Hanks, and Ben Platt.
In a stunning show of solidarity, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and Seth Meyers will also grace the final episodes. All three competing late-night hosts have pledged to air reruns on May 21 instead of new episodes, a rare gesture of respect.
How to Watch the Historic Farewell
| Detail | Information |
| Air Date | Thursday, May 21, 2026 |
| Time | 11:35 p.m. ET |
| Network | CBS |
| Streaming | Paramount+ (available after broadcast) |
Fans can tune in live on CBS or stream on Paramount+ for the finale. YouTube will also have clips available shortly after the broadcast. The episode will feature all the elements that made Colbert beloved: sharp monologues, memorable interviews, and Jon Batiste’s signature music.
“It feels real now. I know it was real, but now there are three months left.”
— Stephen Colbert, discussing the show’s ending
Late-Night Hosts Unite in Unprecedented Show of Support
The broader late-night community has rallied around Colbert in his final weeks. Jimmy Fallon announced The Tonight Show will be dark on May 21. Jimmy Kimmel made the same commitment, airing a repeat instead of new content. Seth Meyers and John Oliver have also adjusted their schedules to pay respect.
This unprecedented solidarity highlights Colbert’s standing among his peers and with audiences. The gesture demonstrates that despite intense competition, late-night hosts recognize the cultural significance of his departure and want viewers focused on his farewell.
What Comes After the Colbert Era Ends?
CBS confirmed that Byron Allen’s “Comics Unleashed” will inherit the 11:35 p.m. slot following Colbert’s final episode. The show features rotating stand-up comedians in a panel format that debuted in 2006. While different in tone from Colbert’s satirical approach, Comics Unleashed has built its own following.
For now, all eyes remain on May 21 and what promises to be television’s most memorable late-night sendoff in decades.
Sources
- USA Today – Complete coverage of the final Late Show episode and guest schedule
- People Magazine – Guest confirmations and Colbert’s reaction to the ending
- North Jersey.com – Detailed final week guest lineup including Obama and Letterman
