Colbert's farewell played it safe with warm, star-studded goodbye and no political bite

CBC CBC —

Host in suit stands in front of desk that says Late Show.https://i.cbc.ca/ais/926516e9-719f-4fdc-9a9f-d4cffa27cf8a,1779480220922/full/max/0/default.jpg?im=Crop%2Crect%3D%280%2C156%2C3000%2C1687%29%3BResize%3D%28620%29" title="Stephen Colbert addresses the audience during the finalLate Show on Thursday May 21, 2026 show." width="620" />

After CBS announced The Late Show's cancellation last year, Stephen Colbert warned viewers that "the gloves are off" — freeing the comedian to get political without consequence.

But what unfolded on Thursday night seemed carefully calculated to comfort rather than confront.

Read full article at CBC →

Stephen Colbert's public access return