Stephen Colbert brought in a surprise final guest to mark the show’s final episode in a memorable way after Pope Leo XIV “canceled” his appearance.
Halfway through the finals of The late show, the 62 year old host was joined by Beatles legend Paul McCartney as the final guest on Thursday’s episode, which aired from the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City.
Before Stephen welcomed Paul to the stage, he told the audience that his last guest was Pope Leo, but he is not coming on stage because he refused to leave his dressing room.
A comedy sketch was then performed in which Stephen begged a fake Pope Leo to leave his dressing room, after which the imposter threw a hot dog in anger.
Stephen then said, “The Pope – who was definitely my guest tonight – has canceled.”
He further said, “We have already sent away the other stars. This is terrible. Now who will be my last guest?”
Then Paul started shouting from behind the stage and said, “Hey Stephen! What about me? I can do it.”
The audience shockedly welcomed the musician with applause as Paul hugged Stephen.
The star-studded finale also featured appearances from Stephen’s old friends and collaborators, including Jimmy Fallon, Paul Rudd, Seth Meyers, Bryan Cranston and Jimmy Kimmel.
Stephen Colbert wrapped up his late night show Thursday night, 10 months after confirming that CBS had decided to end the show that aired for 11 years.
