Stephen Colbert Late Show Ending May 2026: Comedian Hunts for Job References

A 33-year era of television history is drawing to a close. As The Late Show With Stephen Colbert prepares to air its final episode in May 2026, the host is already looking ahead to his next gig—by asking his guests for a reference.

Stephen Colbert Late Show Ending May 2026: The Job Hunt Begins

During Wednesday's episode, Stephen Colbert playfully asked actor Paul Giamatti if he'd vouch for him in the job market. Since Colbert provides a voice for Giamatti's upcoming series, 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,' he inquired how he fared as a co-worker. "You need a little work, but you're an up-and-comer," Giamatti joked, adding that Colbert definitely has a "future." The host didn't miss a beat, bluntly asking if Giamatti would recommend him since he'll be "looking for a gig" very soon.

The franchise, which began in August 1993 with David Letterman, has been led by Colbert since September 2015. CBS announced last July that it would retire the brand entirely following Colbert's departure. While the network called Colbert "irreplaceable," the decision sparked debate over whether financial woes or political pressure led to the cancellation.

Financial Strategy vs. Political Pressure

Speculation has swirled regarding the influence of Donald Trump and his administration on Paramount. However, CBS executives maintain this is a "purely financial decision" amid a "challenging backdrop in late night." Colbert himself has poked fun at the network's finances, questioning how they could bid $108 billion for Warner Bros. while claiming they can't afford his show.