Stephen Colbert’s Final Late Show Marks the End of a Television Era

For one last night, the Ed Sullivan Theater became the center of American late-night television. Stephen Colbert’s final episode of The Late Show was not only the closing chapter of his own 11-year run, but also the end of the historic Late Show franchise, which began on CBS in 1993 with David Letterman. CBS canceled the program in July 2025, saying the decision was financial rather than related to Colbert’s ratings or content.

The finale aired on May 21, 2026, at 11:35 p.m. ET, turning a familiar broadcast slot into a farewell event for generations of viewers. For decades, The Late Show had been a place where comedy, politics, celebrity interviews, and musical performances met under one roof. Its final night carried the weight of television history.

The final two weeks became a celebration of Colbert’s influence. Bruce Springsteen appeared on the penultimate episode, while Colbert’s fellow late-night hosts — Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver, known together with Colbert as “Strike Force Five” — stopped by to honor their friend and colleague. CBS also confirmed Springsteen’s May 20 appearance.

After Colbert’s departure, CBS is reshaping its late-night lineup. Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen will take over the 11:35 p.m. slot beginning Friday, May 22, followed by the Jon Kelley-hosted comedy game show Funny You Should Ask. Allen has said his show will focus on inclusive, non-political comedy rather than trying to replace Colbert directly.

Colbert’s farewell felt larger than one host leaving one show. It marked the disappearance of a late-night institution that helped define American comedy for more than three decades. The Ed Sullivan Theater has seen legendary performers, sharp monologues, and unforgettable cultural moments. On its final Late Show night, it also witnessed the end of an era.