In the dimly lit backstage of the Ed Sullivan Theater, a familiar figure takes a seat across from Stephen Colbert. For eleven years, Tom Hanks has graced this stage with his presence, engaging in conversations that have touched on everything from movies to fatherhood to the unique experience of being one of the most recognizable faces on the planet. But on this particular Wednesday, May 13, it will be the 18th and final time that Hanks will be part of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert as the show enters its last full week of production before bidding farewell on May 21, marking the end of a 33-year era on CBS.
Among the lineup of guests announced for this bittersweet farewell is Julia Louis-Dreyfus, a close connection of Colbert’s in the entertainment world, set to appear on Tuesday, May 12. Additionally, Pedro Pascal, on the brink of the theatrical premiere of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, will make his presence felt on the same night. The penultimate week will also feature appearances by Billy Crystal, Ina Garten, and John Krasinski, rounding out the confirmed lineup.
As the show gears up for its grand finale, The Late Show will see a reunion of the Strike Force Five – Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver – appearing together on television for the first time in three years on the Monday, May 11 episode. Thursday, May 14 will bring David Letterman back for only his second appearance since handing the franchise to Colbert in 2015, coming out of retirement for this special occasion.
Looking ahead to the final episode on May 21, reports suggest that Billie Eilish has taped an appearance, adding to the anticipation of what’s to come. And with former President Barack Obama joining in for a ‘Colbert Questionert’ segment, viewers can expect one last glimpse of the unguarded moments that have become a hallmark of the show.
Since taking over in 2015, Colbert has led The Late Show to its first-ever number-one position in the late-night ratings and secured an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Talk Series in 2025. As the show comes to a close, Colbert has expressed gratitude for the journey and is focused on delivering memorable final episodes filled with the guests, segments, and crew who have been vital to the show’s success.
And so, as The Late Show bids adieu, it leaves behind a decade’s worth of memories, with actors and friends who continued showing up until the very end. The final episode airs on May 21, 2026, marking the end of an era in late-night television.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.