Stephen Colbert returns to late night a day after final taping of ‘Late Show’

As in 2015, his appearance was unannounced. His monologue leaned heavily on local references. He helmed a segment titled “Monroe News” and welcomed back Eminem, who had also appeared on the show during Colbert’s original visit 11 years ago.

CBS announced in July that “The Late Show” — which had run for 33 years — would be canceled as the Paramount-owned network sought the Trump administration’s approval for its $8 billion merger with Skydance. The decision sparked widespread backlash, with critics accusing CBS of capitulating to political pressure. Colbert has been a vocal critic of President Donald Trump and his administration; CBS has maintained the move was purely financial.

On Friday night, Trump shared an AI-generated video on Truth Social of him walking up from behind Colbert on “The Late Show” set and throwing him into a dumpster.

Thursday’s finale featured an all-star lineup, including Paul McCartney, Ryan Reynolds and fellow late-night hosts Jon Stewart, Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers and John Oliver. The broadcast ran more than 20 minutes over its standard one-hour slot and closed with McCartney performing the Beatles’ “Hello, Goodbye.”

Following his run on “The Late Show,” Colbert — a devoted “Lord of the Rings” fan — will turn his attention to writing the screenplay for the franchise’s next film.