Stephen Colbert Announces Final Episode Date of The Late Show

Stephen Colbert has officially announced the final episode date of his iconic talk show, *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*. The last broadcast is scheduled for May 21, 2026. This revelation came during an appearance on *Late Night with Seth Meyers*, where Colbert encouraged fans to “mark their calendars.”

Colbert’s Final Goodbye

In a show of camaraderie, Meyers pledged to take a night off so he could attend Colbert’s farewell at the Ed Sullivan Theater. The two hosts have shared years of friendship in the entertainment industry, making this a noteworthy moment in late-night television.

A Dream Guest Before Closing

Colbert expressed his desire to invite a unique guest before that final episode. He dreams of booking Pope Leo XIV as his last guest. This aspiration holds personal significance for Colbert, who identifies as a Chicago Catholic. He has a deep connection to the Pope, recalling his previous encounter with Pope Francis.

Memorable Encounters

In light-hearted banter, Meyers recounted how he declined an invitation to meet the Pope. Conversely, Colbert took an adventurous route. He once took a helicopter from his studio to JFK Airport, aiming to reach Vatican City in time for the meeting.

Lighthearted Exchanges

During their conversation, Colbert defended the Pope’s potential as a talk show guest. He humorously suggested that Meyers could have faced dire consequences had he met the Pope, joking about the Swiss Guards’ intimidating presence.

Conclusion

The announcement of *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*’s final episode on May 21, 2026, marks a significant moment in late-night television. As Colbert prepares to bid farewell, fans eagerly await what may be a memorable ending to a celebrated run.