The final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert aired on Tuesday, marking the end of a decade-long tenure for the host who succeeded David Letterman. Colbert, 60, used his last broadcast to reflect on the programme’s evolution, its role in American political discourse, and the changing landscape of late-night television.
The farewell was notably emotional. Colbert’s voice broke as he thanked his wife, Evie, and his children, who appeared in a pre-recorded segment. The show also featured montages of memorable moments, from his pointed monologues during the Trump administration to lighter interviews with guests such as Elton John and Oprah Winfrey.
Reaction on social media was immediate. On X, formerly Twitter, the hashtag #ThankYouStephen trended for several hours. Many users praised Colbert for his blend of satire and sincerity. “He made us laugh through dark times,” wrote one user. “His nightly commentary felt like a civic duty.”
Colbert’s departure comes amid broader shifts in late-night television. Ratings have declined across the board as audiences migrate to streaming platforms and shorter-form content. CBS has not yet announced a permanent replacement, though reports suggest a rotating roster of guest hosts may be trialled.
Analysts note that Colbert’s influence extended beyond entertainment. His show became a platform for political engagement, featuring interviews with presidential candidates and segments that fact-checked public figures. “He reinvigorated the format by leaning into current affairs,” said Eleanor Grant, a media professor at Columbia University. “Whether you agreed with him or not, he made the genre relevant again.”
For his part, Colbert concluded with a simple message: “If you can laugh together, you can work together.” The final sign-off was met with a standing ovation from the studio audience.
CBS confirmed that the show’s production team would remain in place while the network evaluates its next steps. A statement from the network thanked Colbert for “ten years of outstanding service and unforgettable television.”
