In a memorable farewell to CBS’s Late Show, Stephen Colbert and David Letterman celebrated the series’ conclusion in a unique way. This event occurred just a week before Colbert’s final episode on May 21. The two hosts ascended to the roof of the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater, where they humorously destroyed set furniture, including chairs and Colbert’s desk seat, by tossing them onto the CBS eyemark logo below.
David Letterman and Stephen Colbert’s Tribute to the Late Show
Letterman, who originally hosted The Late Show from 1993 to 2015, said, “I thought maybe tonight’s occasion would be a little sad, but this brings joy to my heart.” Colbert added humorously that he had been warned against throwing items off the roof when he first started, saying, “I never did it, but we’re at the end here, so all bets are off.”
Fun and Destruction from the Roof
In addition to the furniture, the duo took turns launching watermelons and a cake, embracing the lighthearted spirit of the farewell. Letterman concluded his segment with a cheeky message to CBS executives, referencing the legendary journalist Edward Murrow: “good night and good luck motherfucker.”
Colbert Reflects on His Tenure
The atmosphere was charged with nostalgia and reflection. Earlier, Letterman expressed frustration over CBS’s decision to cancel the program, branding network executives as “lying weasels.” CBS cited financial reasons for the show’s cancellation, emphasizing that it was not related to performance issues.
- Date of Farewell: May 21, one week from the rooftop event.
- Original Host: David Letterman (1993-2015).
- Current Host: Stephen Colbert since 2015.
- Location: Ed Sullivan Theater, CBS.
Earlier in the show, Letterman humorously recounted an encounter with a CBS staff member, joking that he was “fired” while backstage. He also remarked on the theater’s significance, saying, “You folks wouldn’t be in this theater if it weren’t for me.”
Final Appearances and Tributes
Colbert has had a significant impact on CBS’s Late Show, which included high-profile guests and noteworthy moments throughout his tenure. As the series neared its end, fellow late-night hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers made guest appearances, showing camaraderie among the late-night community.
This unique send-off from the roof of the Ed Sullivan Theater encapsulated the spirit of The Late Show and its influential hosts while marking the end of an era in late-night television.
