Stephen Colbert Makes Surprising Guest Appearance on CBS Crime Comedy Amid Late-Night Show Cancellation

CBS is set to feature Stephen Colbert in a new role, signaling a continued presence in late-night entertainment despite recent changes. Following the unexpected cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," which CBS attributed to financial reasons amid regulatory and legal considerations involving the network's parent company, Colbert has hinted at pursuing a podcasting venture after his show's conclusion in May 2026. However, his involvement in television persists. In an unexpected development, Colbert will guest star in the CBS crime comedy "Elsbeth" as the host of a fictional late-night talk show titled "Way Late with Scotty Bristol." The appearance, filmed recently, is scheduled to air in October during the third season of the series, which stars Carrie Preston, Wendell Pierce, and Carra Patterson. The role was arranged months prior to CBS's announcement to cancel Colbert's show. During an earlier interview, Pierce joked about helping Colbert secure a cameo on "Elsbeth," which appeared to come to fruition despite the show's cancellation. The cancellation of Colbert's show coincided with the FCC's approval of CBS's merger with Skydance Media and a $16 million settlem...