The finale of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” captured a record 6.74 million viewers, marking the show’s highest-rated weeknight episode ever. This figure is impressive compared to the average of 2.69 million viewers during the first quarter of 2026. It even surpassed the show’s premiere, which drew 6.55 million viewers back in September 2015.
For context, the most-watched episode in the history of “The Late Show” was its post-Super Bowl episode in February 2016, attracting 20.55 million viewers. In contrast, the final broadcast of “Late Show With David Letterman” in May 2015 had 13.76 million viewers, the show’s largest audience in over two decades.
CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show” citing financial reasons, but many felt the timing raised questions—especially since it came soon after the network’s owner sought to improve relations with the Trump administration. This decision left many fans puzzled after 33 years of the franchise.
The finale featured surprise guest Paul McCartney, who poignantly turned off the lights at the Ed Sullivan Theater, the show’s home since 1993 and the iconic venue where The Beatles first performed on American television in 1964. Colbert and McCartney shared a heartfelt duet of the Beatles’ “Hello Goodbye,” surrounded by special guests including Bryan Cranston, Paul Rudd, and Tig Notaro.
Among the quirky moments, an interdimensional wormhole opened up, adding a fun twist to the show. Before the finale, Colbert and musical guests performed Elvis Costello’s “Jump Up,” showcasing the vibrant talent that has graced the stage over the years.
It’s fascinating to see how late-night television has evolved over the years. According to a recent survey by Pew Research, nearly 60% of Americans now get their news from social media, altering the dynamics for shows like “The Late Show.” This shift underscores the challenge traditional platforms face as they adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape.
In conclusion, the farewell of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” not only marks the end of an era but also reflects the ongoing transformation in how audiences consume entertainment and news.
Source link
Stephen Colbert,The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,Tv Ratings
