entertainment
Late Night Luminaries to Join Stephen Colbert as His Tenure Concludes
Stephen Colbert will welcome a star-studded group of fellow late-night hosts to "The Late Show" in its final weeks. This lineup includes David Letterman and the "Strike Force Five" podcast contingent of Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver.
5/11/2026, 5:01:30 AM
As the final episodes of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" draw near, the program is set to feature an impressive roster of guests from the world of late-night television. This special farewell, as reported by Variety, will bring together several prominent figures who have shaped the landscape of late-night entertainment.
Among the notable guests will be David Letterman, who famously hosted "The Late Show" for many years before Colbert took over. His appearance promises a significant moment for fans, bridging different eras of the popular CBS talk show. Letterman’s return is anticipated with considerable interest, offering a chance to reflect on the program's extensive history.
Additionally, the show will host the entire "Strike Force Five" ensemble: Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver. These hosts, who collaborated with Colbert on a popular podcast during the Hollywood strikes, are scheduled to appear together. Their combined presence is expected to generate significant viewership and provide a unique reunion for those who followed their podcast discussions.
The podcast, which brought these five hosts together for collective conversations, offered audiences an inside look at their camaraderie and perspectives during a challenging time for the entertainment industry. Their upcoming appearance on Colbert's show serves as a poignant conclusion to this particular chapter of their shared history and a memorable way to send off "The Late Show."
Variety also notes that the series finale is scheduled for mid-May, specifically on the 17th. This date marks the culmination of Colbert's run, which began in September 2015. His nine years at the helm of "The Late Show" have been characterized by insightful interviews, comedic sketches, and a distinct voice in late-night television. The upcoming episodes are expected to be a celebratory send-off, acknowledging his contributions to the genre.
The final week will also include appearances by actor Jerry Seinfeld and musical artist Tenacious D, starring Jack Black and Kyle Gass. Their participation further enhances the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the show's conclusion, promising a diverse array of entertainment for viewers. The combination of comedic talent and musical performance ensures a grand finale for the series.