In an unforgettable finale, Stephen Colbert wrapped up his time on The Late Show with a monologue that was as poignant as it was playful. Broadcasting from the historic Ed Sullivan Theater, Colbert reminisced about the show's journey over the past 11 years, sharing a heartfelt moment with his audience. "We were lucky enough to be here," he began, recalling their humble beginnings in a public access station in Monroe, Michigan, back in July 2015.
The Emmy-winning host kept the mood lighthearted, even teasing the idea of starting an OnlyFans account. In his trademark deadpan style, Colbert showed a greeting card that read, "This isn't goodbye, it's see you later!" humorously revealing the original draft: "This isn't goodbye. How do you start an OnlyFans?" It was classic Colbert – blending wit with a touch of cheekiness.
“And show business being what it is these days, that's probably where you'll see me next.”
The evening was sprinkled with surprise appearances by celebrities like Bryan Cranston, Tim Meadows, and Paul Rudd, each vying to be Colbert's last guest. The host didn't hold back on his signature satirical commentary either, taking humorous shots at current events without directly mentioning certain figures. His quips covered everything from New York sinkholes to the Catholic Church scandal, with a robot's failed dance performance thrown in for good measure.
In a closing reflection on the show's legacy, Colbert noted, "We thought the best way to celebrate what we've done over the last 11 years is just do a regular episode where I come out here and talk about the national conversation." With a blend of humor and nostalgia, Colbert left his audience with a sense of gratitude and a hint of what's to come.
The finale wasn't just a goodbye – it was a celebration of Colbert's unique brand of comedy and commentary. From his playful jabs to heartfelt reflections, the evening encapsulated everything fans loved about The Late Show. With a wink and a smile, Colbert ensured his departure was as memorable as his arrival, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next move, whether it's on OnlyFans or elsewhere.