Stephen Colbert serves as the host of a crime drama series.
In a surprising turn of events, US network CBS announced the end of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" in mid-July, sparking outrage among fans and many of Colbert's colleagues. However, the comedian is set to return to the late-night scene, but this time as an actor in the third season of the CBS crime comedy, "Elsbeth."
"Elsbeth" is a spin-off of the legal dramas "The Good Wife" and "The Good Fight," focusing on an unconventional attorney, played by Carrie Preston, who helps the police solve murder cases. Stephen Colbert will guest-star as the host of a fictional late-night talk show called "Way Late with Scotty Bristol."
This guest spot is notable as it provides Colbert a new late-night "gig" in a fictional form on the same network, symbolizing continuity for his late-night persona beyond "The Late Show's" cancellation. The filming of Colbert's episode took place last week, and the season, including his appearance, is set to air in October 2025.
The plot details about how Colbert’s character integrates into "Elsbeth"’s narrative have not been disclosed. However, it is known that he plays a fictional talk show host on the show-within-a-show. This cameo is significant as it provides Colbert a new late-night "gig" in a fictional form on the same network, symbolizing continuity for his late-night persona beyond "The Late Show's" cancellation.
The impact on "Elsbeth" includes adding star power and likely drawing viewers from Colbert’s fan base, while also serving as a meta-commentary given his real-world late-night show had been canceled. This guest spot signals CBS's willingness to maintain connections with Colbert despite ending his prior program.
Late-night talk shows have been instrumental in using satire to counter Trump's populism and expose his untruths and distortions to ridicule. Trump, the former US President, expressed his appreciation for Stephen Colbert's cancellation from "The Late Show" on his online platform Truth Social. However, his statement that Colbert's talent was smaller than his ratings was met with criticism from many.
Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers showed their support for Stephen Colbert following the announcement of the cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." Jon Stewart, another comedian, commented on the cancellation on his "The Daily Show," stating that the answer may lie in the fear and self-censorship that is gripping American institutions.
References: 1. The Hollywood Reporter 2. Deadline 3. Variety 4. The Wrap
In the third season of "Elsbeth," a spin-off of CBS's legal dramas, Stephen Colbert will make a guest appearance as a fictional talk show host on a show-within-the-show, adding star power to the series and potentially drawing viewers from his fan base. This fictional late-night "gig" serves as a symbol of continuity for Colbert's late-night persona beyond the cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert."
CBS's decision to involve Colbert in "Elsbeth" signals a willingness to maintain connections with the comedian despite ending his prior program, demonstrating the network's appreciation for his talents in both entertainment and satire.
