Stephen Colbert Returns With New Episodes of The Late Show — A Star-Studded Farewell Run Before Its Final Curtain in 2026

For nearly a decade, Stephen Colbert has been the sharp-witted, ever-present face of late-night television on CBS. Since 2015, he has anchored The Late Show with Stephen Colbert from the historic Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, carving out a distinctive voice in the crowded world of late-night comedy. But as the countdown to the end of his run approaches — with CBS confirming the program’s conclusion in May 2026 — Colbert is not bowing out quietly.

After a summer break, Colbert is back with fresh episodes beginning Tuesday, September 2. And he’s not returning alone: the guest lineup promises big names, timely conversations, and the same blend of humor and heart that has defined his tenure. With a mix of comedians, actors, athletes, and cultural leaders, the final chapters of The Late Show are already shaping up to be a celebratory send-off.

A Triumphant Return After Summer Hiatus

Colbert’s absence since early August left his time slot filled with reruns, giving fans a temporary pause from his nightly wit. The return marks not only a continuation of his farewell tour but also a reminder of what has made The Late Show such a staple in American television.

First up on the September 2 broadcast is John Oliver, Colbert’s longtime friend and fellow alum of The Daily Show. Both Colbert and Oliver sharpened their comedic chops as correspondents under Jon Stewart before branching off into their own shows. Oliver, now an Emmy-winning host of HBO’s Last Week Tonight, has often been regarded as one of Colbert’s closest peers in the art of satirical news. Their reunion promises both nostalgia and sharp commentary.

Joining Oliver on the night’s lineup is stand-up comedian Joe Dombrowski, known for his energetic style and offbeat humor. His appearance adds a lighter counterpoint to Oliver’s more topical comedy, ensuring the evening reflects Colbert’s trademark variety.

Midweek Heavyweights: Ruffalo and Anthony

The September 3 episode ups the ante with two high-profile guests from very different worlds. Oscar-nominated actor Mark Ruffalo, beloved for his work both in independent dramas and as the Hulk in Marvel’s cinematic universe, will take a seat opposite Colbert. Ruffalo has long been an outspoken figure in Hollywood, and his interviews often blend personal charm with earnest reflections on both craft and culture.

Sharing the stage will be Carmelo Anthony, the retired NBA All-Star whose career spanned nearly two decades. A ten-time All-Star and one of the game’s most prolific scorers, Anthony has transitioned into new ventures since leaving the court, from philanthropy to media projects. His conversation with Colbert will likely blend reflections on basketball’s golden era with insights into life after the game.

September 4: Ferrera and Maher Step In

The third night back, September 4, is set to highlight two women from very different arenas. Actress America Ferrera, fresh off a wave of acclaim for her role in Barbie and a long career marked by groundbreaking performances, will bring her perspective on Hollywood, representation, and storytelling. Ferrera’s interviews are often candid and uplifting, and her presence is a fitting addition to Colbert’s guest list.

Also appearing is Katherine Maher, the CEO of NPR. Maher arrives at a particularly pivotal moment, as public broadcasting faces one of its most challenging financial periods. Recently, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting saw its federal funding withdrawn by a Republican-majority Congress, leaving NPR with a reported $1.1 billion gap. Maher’s conversation with Colbert is expected to address the importance of independent journalism, the value of public media, and the uncertain future ahead.

The Countdown to 2026: Why the Show Is Ending

The announcement in July that CBS will end The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in May 2026 marked the beginning of the end for one of the most-watched programs in late-night television. Colbert’s tenure has been notable not just for strong ratings but for his ability to reinvent the late-night desk for a new era.

Where earlier hosts leaned heavily on variety and celebrity spectacle, Colbert carved out space for political satire and cultural conversations. His monologues often trended the next day, sparking discussions well beyond the Ed Sullivan Theater. For many, his voice became a nightly ritual during years of political turbulence and cultural change.

The network’s decision to sunset the program reflects both the shifting media landscape and the challenges facing late-night shows in general. As streaming platforms and on-demand viewing continue to grow, traditional late-night programming has faced declining viewership. Still, Colbert’s exit marks the end of an era for CBS, which has hosted late-night programming since the days of David Letterman.

Industry Support and Emmy Recognition

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the show’s future, Colbert is hardly fading into the background. The Late Show has been nominated for the Emmy Award in the Outstanding Talk Series category this month, underscoring its continued relevance and quality.

What’s more, Colbert’s peers in the industry have rallied around him. Fellow late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has gone so far as to champion Colbert’s Emmy chances publicly, even purchasing a billboard in Los Angeles that reads, “I’m Voting for Stephen!” It’s an unusual but telling gesture — a moment of solidarity in a competitive field. For Kimmel, Colbert’s contributions to the genre outweigh rivalry, and his public endorsement is both playful and sincere.

John Oliver, too, has expressed admiration for Colbert’s work, describing the cancellation as a loss for comedy but also recognizing the enduring impact Colbert has had on television. Their shared history gives their upcoming interview an added layer of significance.

A Tumultuous Climate for Late-Night

Colbert’s farewell run is unfolding against a turbulent backdrop. The world of late-night has grown increasingly competitive, with shrinking audiences and networks reassessing costs. Shows that once defined entire cultural moments now fight to hold attention in an age of streaming, social media, and podcasts.

Even so, the resilience of hosts like Colbert, Oliver, Kimmel, and others proves that the format still matters. Late-night remains one of the few spaces where comedy, culture, and current events intersect live on national television. For viewers, these shows serve not only as entertainment but as nightly reflections of the day’s events.

Looking Ahead

What comes after May 2026 for Stephen Colbert remains an open question. Will he return to the variety show landscape in another form, as Jon Stewart once did? Will he retreat to writing, producing, or perhaps even return to his satirical roots in a new medium? For now, Colbert seems focused on savoring the time he has left behind the desk, making each episode count.

Fans, meanwhile, are preparing to enjoy the ride. With a guest list that includes comedy giants, Hollywood stars, athletes, and cultural leaders, The Late Show’s final seasons promise to deliver the same sharp humor and thoughtful conversations that have defined Colbert’s era.

As the lights rise again in the Ed Sullivan Theater, one thing is clear: Stephen Colbert isn’t going quietly. His return this September is not just a continuation but a celebration — of comedy, of conversation, and of the enduring power of late-night television.