In a surprising twist following the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the veteran late-night host has swiftly landed a new role on CBS, this time stepping into the world of scripted television. Stephen Colbert, 61, is set to guest-star in the third season of the crime comedy series Elsbeth, a move that showcases his versatility as he transitions from late-night television to a fictional role on the same network that recently ended his long-running talk show.

A New Chapter for Colbert

According to industry sources, including a report from Variety, Colbert will portray the host of a fictional late-night talk show called Way Late with Scotty Bristol in an upcoming episode of Elsbeth. The series, a spin-off from the acclaimed legal dramas The Good Wife and The Good Fight, centers on the quirky and brilliant attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, played by Carrie Preston, as she investigates murders in New York City. While details about Colbert’s role in the narrative remain under wraps, the episode featuring his appearance has already been filmed, signaling a seamless pivot for the comedian.

The opportunity for Colbert to join Elsbeth reportedly stemmed from a conversation with actor Wendell Pierce, a guest on The Late Show in February 2025. During the interview, Colbert humorously expressed his desire to appear on Elsbeth—even joking about playing a corpse. Pierce, who stars in the series, responded enthusiastically, saying, “I can make that happen. I know a guy who knows a guy. We can get you on.” This lighthearted exchange coincided with CBS greenlighting the third season of Elsbeth, setting the stage for Colbert’s casting.

Deadline reports that the role was tailored specifically for Colbert, with the script crafted to highlight his charisma and comedic timing. Although the cancellation of The Late Show raised questions about whether the role might be recast, the production team decided to retain Colbert, recognizing his unique appeal and star power.

Elsbeth: A Star-Studded Spin-Off

Elsbeth has quickly become a fan favorite, blending sharp humor with intricate crime-solving narratives. Fronted by Carrie Preston as the unconventional Elsbeth Tascioni, the series has attracted a roster of high-profile guest stars in its first two seasons, including Nathan Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Matthew Broderick, and Laura Benanti. Colbert’s addition to the cast further elevates the show’s reputation for drawing top-tier talent.

The series follows Elsbeth Tascioni, a character first introduced in The Good Wife and later featured in The Good Fight. Her unorthodox approach to solving crimes, combined with her keen intellect, has made her a standout figure in the legal drama genre. The third season, set to premiere later this year, promises to continue the show’s tradition of blending wit, suspense, and star-studded performances.

The End of an Era: The Late Show Cancellation

The news of Colbert’s guest role comes on the heels of CBS’s decision to end The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in May 2026. The network cited financial considerations as the primary reason for the cancellation, a move that has sparked widespread discussion in the entertainment industry. For over a decade, Colbert has been a fixture of late-night television, known for his incisive political commentary, sharp wit, and ability to connect with audiences. His departure from the late-night landscape marks the end of a significant chapter in television history.

However, the timing of the cancellation has fueled speculation about deeper motivations. Some industry observers suggest that the decision may be tied to Paramount, CBS’s parent company, navigating a complex $8 billion sale to Skydance. The deal requires approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is currently under the influence of President Donald Trump. Colbert, a vocal critic of Trump, has been at the center of a public feud with the president, adding a layer of intrigue to the cancellation.

A Political Firestorm

Colbert’s criticisms of Trump have been a hallmark of his tenure on The Late Show. The comedian has frequently used his platform to lampoon the former president, often with biting satire. The tension between the two escalated recently when Colbert commented on a $16 million settlement paid by Paramount to Trump over a segment aired on CBS’s 60 Minutes. Colbert described the payment as a “big fat bribe,” a remark that drew significant attention.

Shortly after this comment, Paramount announced the cancellation of The Late Show, prompting speculation that the decision was an attempt to appease Trump and secure FCC approval for the Skydance deal. Trump himself celebrated the news, posting on his Truth Social platform: “I absolutely love that Colbert was fired.” The president’s gleeful response underscored the personal nature of their ongoing feud.

Undeterred, Colbert responded with characteristic defiance. “The gloves are off,” he declared, signaling that he has no intention of backing down from his criticisms. The exchange has only intensified public interest in Colbert’s next moves, both on and off the screen.

Colbert’s Legacy and Future

Stephen Colbert’s tenure on The Late Show has been defined by his ability to blend humor with sharp political commentary, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. His transition to a guest role on Elsbeth represents a new opportunity to showcase his talents in a different format. While the role is fictional, it allows Colbert to lean into his comedic roots, playing a character that mirrors his real-life persona as a talk show host.

The cancellation of The Late Show has raised questions about the future of late-night television, particularly as networks grapple with changing viewer habits and financial pressures. For Colbert, however, the move to Elsbeth suggests that his career is far from over. His ability to secure a high-profile role so soon after the cancellation demonstrates his enduring appeal and versatility.

What’s Next for Elsbeth and Colbert?

As Elsbeth prepares for its third season, anticipation is building for Colbert’s appearance. The show’s unique blend of comedy and crime has resonated with audiences, and Colbert’s guest role is expected to be a highlight of the upcoming season. While it remains unclear how his character, Scotty Bristol, will fit into the show’s narrative, fans can expect a performance that combines Colbert’s signature humor with the quirky charm of Elsbeth.

For Colbert, the role marks a new chapter in a storied career. From his early days on The Daily Show to his groundbreaking work on The Colbert Report and The Late Show, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of comedy and commentary. His guest appearance on Elsbeth is a reminder of his adaptability and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.

As the final episodes of The Late Show approach, fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely to see what Colbert does next. Whether he continues to explore acting, returns to late-night television, or pursues new ventures, one thing is certain: Stephen Colbert remains a force to be reckoned with.

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