'Late Show With Stephen Colbert' sets final episode date
Six months after CBS announced that 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert' would be ending, its award-winning host has revealed the final episode date.
ew.comDirect answer: Stephen Colbert’s final episode of The Late Show aired on May 21, 2026.
Context and highlights
- CBS announced in mid-2025 that The Late Show would end, citing financial considerations despite strong ratings, and that Colbert would host the final episodes in May 2026.[9]
- The final broadcast date was publicly confirmed by Colbert during a taping of a companion show and subsequently reported across entertainment outlets, with May 21, 2026 identified as the series finale date.[3][5]
- The farewell week and final episode included retrospectives and celebrity tributes, marking the end of a 30+ year CBS late-night era under Colbert’s tenure.[4][9]
What this means for you
- If you’re seeking is a recap or full episode details, look for post-finale coverage in major outlets (e.g., Entertainment Weekly, The Hollywood Reporter, CNN) that summarize guests, highlight reels, and Colbert’s reflections.[5][4]
- For fan memories, social media and fan sites typically compile notable moments from the finale week, including standout interviews and clips.[4]
Sources
- The Hollywood Reporter confirms Colbert’s final date and notes the financial context for CBS’s decision.[9]
- Entertainment Weekly reports the final date and surrounding context, including initial announcements.[5]
- The Independent provides coverage of the May 21, 2026 finale date and related scheduling details.[1]