Stephen Colbert has been hosting The Late Show since September 8, 2015, so as of early 2026 he has been on the show for a little over 10 years.

How long exactly?

  • Premiere date: September 8, 2015.
  • Current timeframe: January 2026.
  • That means he has been hosting for about 10 years and 4–5 months.

If you’re curious about the future: CBS has announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end in May 2026, which would cap his run at just over 10 and a half years.

Mini FAQ

  • Q: When did he take over from David Letterman?
    A: Colbert’s version of The Late Show premiered on September 8, 2015, immediately following Letterman’s retirement earlier that year.
  • Q: Is the show still running right now (early 2026)?
    A: Yes, it is still airing, with a final episode scheduled for May 21, 2026.

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