Stephen Colbert Looks Back on His Journey to ‘The Late Show’

In the heart of New York City, the bright lights of Broadway flickered against the night sky, casting a warm glow on the bustling streets below. Among the myriad of theaters and restaurants, one building stood out: the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater, home to “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” As the clock ticked down to the final season of the show, the atmosphere was charged with nostalgia and anticipation.

Stephen Colbert, the beloved host, had just announced that CBS would be pulling the plug on his show, effective May 2026. The news had sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, leaving fans and colleagues alike in disbelief. For a decade, Colbert had been a fixture in late-night television, known for his sharp wit, satirical commentary, and ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. But now, as he prepared for the final chapter of his late-night journey, he found himself reflecting on the path that had brought him here.

Colbert’s journey into comedy began in Charleston, South Carolina, where he was the youngest of eleven children. Growing up in a large family, he quickly learned that humor was a powerful tool for navigating the chaos of life. “Comedy was survival,” he often said, recalling how the funniest sibling would become the center of attention, the “king” of the room. However, tragedy struck when he was just ten years old; his father and two older brothers were killed in a plane crash. This devastating loss shaped Colbert’s perspective on life and comedy, instilling in him a deep understanding of grief and resilience.

As he moved to Chicago to study theater at Northwestern University, Colbert immersed himself in the world of improv. He honed his craft at the Improv Olympic and later at Second City, where he learned the art of quick thinking and spontaneity. His first television gig came on “The Dana Carvey Show,” but it was short-lived, canceled after just one season. Despite the setback, Colbert remained undeterred, believing that his time would come.

In 1997, he joined “The Daily Show” as a correspondent, where he found his voice and began to make a name for himself. His satirical take on current events resonated with audiences, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Eight years later, he launched “The Colbert Report,” a parody of conservative punditry that earned him critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards. Colbert’s unique blend of humor and political commentary struck a chord during the tumultuous years of the George W. Bush administration, and he became a prominent voice in the world of late-night television.

When David Letterman announced his retirement from “The Late Show,” Colbert was chosen to take over the reins. It was a monumental moment in his career, but it also came with immense pressure. “I wasn’t sure if I could fill those shoes,” he admitted during a recent interview. “But I knew I had to be myself, not just a character.” The transition from playing a satirical persona to being Stephen Colbert was daunting, yet liberating. He embraced the challenge, using his platform to address pressing social issues and engage with his audience in a more personal way.

As the final season approached, Colbert found himself reflecting on the impact of his work. He had become a powerful voice for many, tackling topics like grief, loss, and the importance of community. “Comedy can be a source of healing,” he often said, sharing how his own experiences with loss had shaped his understanding of the world. He believed that addressing grief openly could bring light to even the darkest moments, allowing people to find solace in shared experiences.

In the midst of the show’s impending conclusion, Colbert and his wife, Evie, embarked on a new project together: a cookbook titled “Does This Taste Funny?” The idea came about during the pandemic when they found themselves cooking more at home. Their eldest daughter had jokingly declared that their household was now a “roommate situation,” leading to the creation of a chore wheel that assigned cooking duties. As they rediscovered family recipes and shared stories from their past, the cookbook became a labor of love, blending humor with heartfelt memories.

The process of writing the cookbook brought Colbert and Evie closer together. “It was a joy to collaborate with her,” he said, laughing as he recounted their kitchen adventures. “I could make her do all the work and still take credit for the book!” Their playful banter and shared love for food infused the project with warmth and authenticity, making it a true reflection of their family life.

As the final episodes of “The Late Show” approached, Colbert prepared to deliver his last monologue. The weight of the moment was not lost on him. “It’s not just the end of a show; it’s the end of an era,” he reflected. “But I want to leave my audience with a sense of hope and laughter.” He knew that his journey in comedy was far from over; it was simply evolving into something new.

On the night of the final episode, the Ed Sullivan Theater was filled with a mix of laughter and tears. Colbert took the stage, greeted by thunderous applause. “Thank you for being part of this incredible journey,” he began, his voice filled with emotion. “Comedy has been my lifeline, and I hope it has brought you joy, too.” As he delivered his last monologue, he shared stories, jokes, and heartfelt messages, reminding everyone of the power of laughter to heal and connect.

As the show concluded, Colbert stepped off the stage, knowing that while “The Late Show” may be ending, his love for comedy and storytelling would continue. He looked forward to new adventures, whether in writing, acting, or simply sharing moments with his family. The journey had been long and filled with ups and downs, but through it all, he had found his voice and his purpose.

In the end, Stephen Colbert’s legacy would not just be defined by his time on television but by the laughter he brought to millions and the connections he forged through his art. As he walked away from the stage, he felt a sense of fulfillment, ready to embrace whatever came next, knowing that the laughter would always remain.