The final episode of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert attracted an audience of 6.74 million viewers, making it the most-watched weeknight episode during the show’s 11-year run, according to CBS.
Throughout its final season, the series averaged 2.7 million viewers. The most-watched episode overall remains the February 7, 2016, special following the Super Bowl, which drew 20.55 million viewers. Colbert debuted on September 8, 2015, with 6.55 million viewers, down from predecessor David Letterman’s finale (13.76 million) but above Letterman’s final season average of 2.8 million.
A Star-Studded Goodbye
Paul McCartney served as Colbert’s final guest, ceremonially turning out the lights at the Ed Sullivan Theater, where the Beatles performed in 1964. The broadcast ended with McCartney leading a performance of “Hello, Goodbye,” joined by Colbert’s family and staff. The duo then pulled a lever labeled “Late Show,” cutting power to the theater in a symbolic jab at CBS for canceling the series.
Sharp Criticisms of CBS
Colbert did not hold back in his final remarks. After noting lawsuits over unauthorized use of Peanuts music, he quipped, “Anyone illegally using that music is gonna have to pay through the nose.” His band then played the same tune, prompting Colbert to say, “Oh no! I hope this doesn't cost CBS any money!”
The cancellation was announced last July, days after Colbert criticized CBS parent Paramount for settling a $16 million lawsuit with President Donald Trump over a 2024 interview edit.
