Stephen Colbert took a nostalgic trip down memory lane on Wednesday night during the penultimate episode of The Late Show, engaging in a special segment of his iconic "Colbert Questionnaire" with an all-star lineup of celebrity guests.
Why it matters: This episode marked a bittersweet moment as Colbert prepares to close the chapter on his late-night talk show, which has been a staple of CBS programming since its launch in 2015.
The final episode of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert is set to air on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
Colbert's unique blend of humor and insightful interviews has shaped late-night television over the past nine years.
With the show's cancellation, Colbert's departure signifies a notable shift in the late-night television lineup.
Driving the news: During the show, Colbert was put in the hot seat as he answered questions posed by his famous friends, including Billy Crystal, Martha Stewart, and Robert De Niro.
John Dickerson, former CBS Evening News anchor, hosted the segment, introducing each guest as they posed their questions.
Colbert's responses ranged from his favorite sandwich to his earliest memory, offering fans a glimpse into his personal life.
The episode featured an impressive roster of guests, including Weird Al Yankovic, Josh Brolin, Jim Gaffigan, Tiffany Haddish, and more.
The big picture: Colbert's farewell segment highlighted his enduring influence in late-night television and the connections he forged with guests over the years.
Colbert revealed his favorite sandwich: a tomato sandwich on thin white bread for summer and hot pastrami on rye with mustard and coleslaw for the rest of the year.
He shared that the scariest animal to him is a trapdoor spider, humorously noting that a scientist named one after him.
Colbert recalled his first concert experience as a child, attending a Chuck Mangione performance with his mother in 1977.
What they're saying: The episode resonated with fans and critics alike, with many praising Colbert's ability to connect with his guests and audience.
Bruce Springsteen, who performed his new song "Streets of Minneapolis" on the show, expressed support for Colbert, saying, "I'm here in support of Stephen tonight because you're the first guy in America who lost a show because we have a president who can't take a joke."
Springsteen criticized CBS's ownership under David Ellison, stating, "These are small-minded people who got no idea what the freedoms of this beautiful country are supposed to be about."
Observers have speculated that the show's cancellation is linked to Colbert's frequent jokes about President Donald Trump.
By the numbers: Colbert's tenure has seen numerous memorable moments and high-profile guests.
Over the years, Colbert has welcomed a diverse range of celebrities, politicians, and cultural figures, contributing to a rich legacy in late-night television.
The final episode will mark the end of a nine-year run for Colbert, who has become known for his sharp wit and political commentary.
Colbert's farewell comes as CBS prepares to replace his show with Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen in the 11:35 p.m. weeknight slot.
What's next: As Colbert wraps up his time at CBS, fans can look forward to the final episode airing on May 21, 2026.
The series finale will likely be a celebration of Colbert's legacy, with surprise guests and memorable moments expected.
Colbert's future plans remain under wraps, leaving fans eager to see where his career takes him next.
As the late-night television scene evolves, Colbert's departure will undoubtedly leave a void for many viewers.
In a heartfelt moment during the show, Colbert answered a question about what number he was thinking of, guessing "three," which elicited laughter from the audience and guests alike. His humor and charm have left an indelible mark on late-night television, making his farewell a poignant moment for fans and colleagues.