Stephen Colbert closed out CBS’s Late Show with a star‑studded farewell that doubled as a brand showcase for the Ed Sullivan Theater. The final episode featured cameo appearances by Bryan Cranston, Paul Rudd and Tim Meadows, while audience members Tig Notaro and Ryan Reynolds added surprise buzz. Colbert’s monologue reminded viewers of the program’s 2015 public‑access roots.

Mid‑show, an unseen “Pope Leo” balked, prompting improvisation that landed Paul McCartney as the surprise guest. McCartney handed Colbert a framed, signed photo of The Beatles’ 1964 Ed Sullivan debut, prompting a tongue‑in‑cheek jab that the host was “better than The Beatles.” The band, led by Louis Cato, joined McCartney for a live rendition of “Hello, Goodbye.”

The finale wrapped with a wormhole gag that sucked Colbert into a musical snow‑globe version of the theater, accompanied by Jon Batiste, Elvis Costello and the band. Neil deGrasse Tyson, Jon Stewart and Andy Cohen appeared to “send him off,” while Strike Force Five co‑hosts cheered from sidelines. CBS used the spectacle to reinforce the franchise’s cultural cache as it prepares to reallocate time slot.