Colbert hosts "The Late Show" one last time tonight as franchise ends
Stephen Colbert hosted the final episode of 'The Late Show' on Thursday, marking the end of a 33-year franchise. The finale featured numerous prominent guests and emotional moments, including a surprise serenade from Andra Day. CBS announced the show's cancellation due to financial reasons, which sparked speculation about potential political motives behind the decision.
- ▪Stephen Colbert hosted the last episode of 'The Late Show' on Thursday night.
- ▪The show featured guests like Tom Hanks, Jon Stewart, and Bruce Springsteen during its final week.
- ▪CBS ended the franchise citing financial challenges in the late-night landscape.
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Entertainment Stephen Colbert hosts "The Late Show" one last time tonight as franchise ends after 33 years By Kierra Frazier Kierra Frazier News Editor Kierra Frazier is a news editor for CBS News & Stations. Read Full Bio Kierra Frazier Updated on: May 21, 2026 / 6:04 AM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google The iconic Ed Sullivan Theater marquee lights up and Stephen Colbert takes the stage one last time for the final broadcast of "The Late Show" Thursday night, before the curtain comes down on more than 30 years of late-night TV history.In the days counting down to the franchise finale, a stream of prominent guests and fellow late-night hosts took their place in the seat beside Colbert to share stories, laughs and some emotional moments. Actor Tom Hanks gifted him a typewriter.
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