Colbert’s First TV Appearance After ‘Late Show’ Is On Public Access

BusinessMediaColbert’s First TV Appearance After ‘Late Show’ Is On Public AccessByRick Ellis,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. The global media business, from streaming to linear TVFollow AuthorMay 24, 2026, 03:08am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Stephen Colbert, hosting a special edition of "Only In Monroe"Monroe Community Media, 2026At the beginning of Thursday’s Late Show finale, host Stephen Colbert cryptically made these comments: Tonight is our final broadcast from the Ed Sullivan Theater. “Though technically our first show in July of 2015 was from a public access station in Monroe, Michigan for an audience of 12 people. Show business being what it is these days, that’s probably where you’ll see me next. Colbert was hinting at one came next, because the following day, he made an appearance as the host on Only in Monroe, the Monroe, Michigan public-access show that he had first appeared on back in July 2015, while he was waiting to launch The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.As was the case with his first appearance, Colbert played it relatively straight and you can imagine a world in which Colbert and Only In Monroe is the hippest and funniest public access show in America.Colbert opened with what was essentially a sit-down opening monologue, playing to what sounds like an in-studio audience of 3 or 4. “We don’t have any sponsors? And we lost a lot of money doing this show? Now I know how CBS felt.”After thanking his small crew, Colbert said “I would say all of you are the best in the business, but that would imply someone is paying you.” At the same time, he introduced his “volunteer musical director native Michigander and member of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Jack White.” Jack White, appearing on a special edition of "Only In Monroe," hosted by Stephen Colbert.Monroe Community Media, 2026Colbert tha...