John Lithgow Pens Poem for Stephen Colbert, Addressing ‘Late Show’ Cancellation & Trump’s Role

John Lithgow Honors Stephen Colbert with Moving Poem as ‘The Late Show’ Nears Its Complete

As the final weeks approach for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, tributes are pouring in for the long-running host. Following a musical serenade from Jimmy Fallon, actor and playwright John Lithgow delivered a heartfelt and pointed poem, titled “The Mighty Colbert,” during a Monday night appearance on the show. The poem, a blend of admiration and commentary on the circumstances surrounding the show’s cancellation, resonated deeply with Colbert and the audience, marking another emotional moment in the lead-up to the program’s finale on May 21st.

Lithgow, a frequent guest on The Late Show and The Colbert Report before it, explained he specifically requested to deliver the poem live on television, “in front of everybody.” The gesture underscored the deep respect he holds for Colbert and the significance of the moment. The poem’s verses acknowledged the impending loss of Colbert’s presence in late night while similarly subtly addressing the controversy surrounding the show’s conclusion, which has been linked to financial pressures at CBS and, as Colbert himself alluded to, decisions made by Paramount Global.

A Poem Reflecting on Legacy and Circumstance

The poem began with a somber tone, acknowledging the inevitable departure. “The time has arrived/ For us all to prepare/ For the doleful departure of Stephen Colbert,” Lithgow read, continuing with a poignant question: “How will we last in the gaping black hole/ That’s left in the absence of his merry soul?” Lithgow’s words captured the sentiment shared by many fans who have come to rely on Colbert’s sharp wit and insightful commentary for over a decade.

However, the poem didn’t shy away from addressing the reasons behind the show’s cancellation. “So why is he canceled?/ Why trash all the pleasure?/ Why yank off the air this beloved national treasure?” Lithgow posed, directly referencing the decision to end The Late Show. He then delivered a particularly pointed line: “Stephen’s tale is a lesson for all who come after/ Beware of a boss with thin skin and no laughter.” This line, as reported by Entertainment Weekly, drew a significant reaction from the studio audience and a grateful embrace from Colbert himself.

The poem concluded on a hopeful note, celebrating Colbert’s talent and predicting a bright future. “But don’t mourn for Stephen/ He’s going to be fine/ He’ll only get better/ Like aging fine wine/ With a talent so rich and discernment so rare/ There’s much more to come from the mighty Colbert.” This optimistic outlook offered a sense of reassurance to viewers concerned about Colbert’s future endeavors.

A Multi-Talented Performer

Lithgow’s appearance on The Late Show wasn’t solely dedicated to honoring Colbert. The acclaimed actor was also promoting his current Broadway role in Giant, a stage adaptation of the 1956 film, where he portrays the controversial author Roald Dahl. Late Nighter reported that Lithgow described portraying Dahl as a complex undertaking. He is also preparing to take on another iconic role: Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO series adaptation of the Harry Potter novels, a project that he acknowledged was “exhausting but exhilarating” given his age of 80.

The End of an Era for Late Night

The decision to end The Late Show, announced in 2023, came amid reported financial challenges at CBS. According to a statement released by CBS, as reported by Yahoo Entertainment, the move was “purely a financial decision” and “not related in any way to the show’s performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount.” The network emphasized Colbert’s irreplaceable contribution to late-night television, stating that the show would be “remembered in the pantheon of greats.”

Colbert himself addressed the cancellation on his show, acknowledging the decision while expressing gratitude to CBS. He has also been vocal about the circumstances surrounding the show’s end, notably during his acceptance of the Walter Bernstein Award at the 2026 Writers Guild Awards. As Rolling Stone reported, Colbert used his acceptance speech to critique Paramount Global, suggesting that the show’s cancellation was a result of its financial losses, quipping that “the revolution is thinking about starting a Substack.”

A Legacy of Satire and Impact

Stephen Colbert’s career in late-night television spans over two decades, beginning with the groundbreaking satirical character he portrayed on The Colbert Report (2005-2014). He transitioned to hosting The Late Show in 2015, continuing to deliver sharp political commentary and engaging interviews. Throughout his tenure, Colbert has develop into a prominent voice in American culture, known for his intelligence, wit, and commitment to journalistic integrity. His show has consistently garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated viewership, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in late-night television.

The outpouring of tributes, from Fallon’s musical homage to Lithgow’s eloquent poem, underscores the profound impact Colbert has had on the entertainment industry and his audience. As The Late Show approaches its final broadcast, the tributes serve as a testament to Colbert’s enduring legacy and the void his departure will leave in the late-night landscape.

The final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is scheduled to air on May 21st. Viewers can continue to follow updates on Colbert’s future projects through his social media channels and official website. Share your favorite Late Show moments and memories in the comments below.