Story perspectives

Colbert’s Final Late Show Features McCartney, Rudd, Reynolds

5/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

CBS aired Stephen Colbert’s final Late Show 11:35 p.m. ET, running 17 minutes longer.
The program featured Paul McCartney at theater, Jon Batiste’s performance, and cameos by Paul Rudd, Bryan Cranston and Ryan Reynolds, with Reynolds on tambourine.
Security outside the theater was tight, featuring a tower and cars, while the audience chanted “Ste-phen!” and called the farewell moving.
Music director Louis Cato and Stephen Colbert exchanged remarks praising Colbert’s leadership.

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Story summary

CBS aired Stephen Colbert’s final Late Show 11:35 p.m. ET, running 17 minutes longer.
The program featured Paul McCartney at theater, Jon Batiste’s performance, and cameos by Paul Rudd, Bryan Cranston and Ryan Reynolds, with Reynolds on tambourine.
Security outside the theater was tight, featuring a tower and cars, while the audience chanted “Ste-phen!” and called the farewell moving.
Music director Louis Cato and Stephen Colbert exchanged remarks praising Colbert’s leadership.