Additional Coverage:
- Lord of the Rings legend seen arriving at taping for Stephen Colbert’s final episode (irishstar.com)
Stephen Colbert to Close Chapter on The Late Show with Special Finale Taping
After nearly three and a half decades, The Late Show on CBS is preparing to sign off, with comedian Stephen Colbert hosting his final episode on May 21. The beloved late-night program, a staple of American television since 1993, will conclude its 33-year run, marking the end of an era.
CBS announced in July 2025 that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would be canceled. Colbert, 62, took over hosting duties in 2015, succeeding the legendary David Letterman. In the lead-up to the finale, notable filmmaker Peter Jackson was seen arriving at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, where the show has been filmed since its inception.
While the specifics of the farewell episode-including guest appearances and performances-have been kept confidential, Colbert has spoken openly about how the cancellation “saved my life,” reflecting on the profound personal impact of the show’s conclusion.
Peter Jackson, renowned for directing The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, shares a close friendship and creative partnership with Colbert, who is a passionate fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work. In fact, Colbert even made a cameo in the 2013 film The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.
The two are now collaborating on a new Tolkien-inspired project titled Shadow of the Past. This film will explore previously untold chapters from The Fellowship of the Ring. The project also involves screenwriter Philippa Boyens and Stephen’s son, Peter McGee, who is 28 years old.
Speaking at the Cannes Film Festival, Jackson revealed that the news of the show’s cancellation came during the writing process-a development he described as “not deserved.” He added that the new film project has provided Colbert with a meaningful outlet to channel his creative energy amid the unexpected end of his late-night tenure.
In the show’s final week, Colbert welcomed an impressive lineup of guests, including Jon Stewart, Steven Spielberg, David Byrne, and Bruce Springsteen. However, the full guest list for the May 21 finale remains a surprise until it airs.
The closing chapter of The Late Show marks a significant moment in television history, as Colbert transitions from late-night host to Tolkien storyteller, embarking on a new creative journey.