John Lithgow paid an unexpected tribute to Stephen Colbert during his recent appearance on The Late Show, as the series approaches its conclusion on May 21. Known for his acting and frequent visits to the show, Lithgow offered a poignant poem titled The Mighty Colbert, honoring Colbert’s impact on late-night television and expressing concern about the show’s cancellation. This John Lithgow Stephen Colbert tribute captured the attention of both the live audience and viewers at home.
Poem Reflects on Colbert’s Career and Show’s End
Lithgow arrived on the program Monday night to discuss his new Broadway play, Giant, but before concluding the interview, he chose to share his original poem. He began by highlighting the emptiness Colbert’s departure will create in the late-night landscape:
“The time has arrived for us all to prepare / for the doleful departure of Stephen Colbert,”
John Lithgow, Actor
The poem celebrated Colbert’s twenty years on satirical television, noting the host’s evolution from The Colbert Report to his decade as The Late Show’s leading presence. Lithgow praised Colbert’s nightly monologues as “sublime masterworks,” reflecting on the lasting entertainment and insight they provided.
Candid Criticism of the Show’s Cancellation
Despite its tribute, the poem took a critical tone regarding the decision to end the program. Lithgow questioned the rationale behind the cancellation and the loss that viewers face with this departure:
“So why is he canceled? Why trash all that pleasure? Why yank off the air this beloved national treasure?”
John Lithgow, Actor
He concluded with a striking admonition directed broadly at leadership in television:
“Stephen’s tale is a lesson for all who come after. Beware of a boss with thin skin and no laughter.”
John Lithgow, Actor
The audience responded with strong applause, and Stephen Colbert expressed his gratitude with a warm embrace.
Longstanding Partnership and Legacy
John Lithgow has been a familiar presence on the show, appearing on The Late Show ten times and featured regularly on The Colbert Report. His memorable impersonation of Rudy Giuliani added humor and depth to several episodes over the years. This poetic farewell encapsulates both admiration and concern as Colbert’s tenure comes to a close.
Fans continue to look back at these moments while contemplating the future of late-night television after Stephen Colbert’s retirement from the spotlight.
