5 biggest guest appearances on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert so far

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has been one of the most talked-about shows when it comes to making people laugh and inviting big celebrity guests. Because of its popularity, the show has won multiple awards over the years, including Emmys and Grammys, making Colbert a popular and award-winning host who is loved by many.

However, the show that has been running for over thirty years now will come to an end in May next year. Speaking of the same to GQ, Stephen Colbert said:

"Listen, every show’s got to end at some time. And I’ve been on a bunch of shows that have ended sometimes by our lights and sometimes by the decision of other people. That’s just the nature of show business. You can’t worry about that. You got to be a big boy about that. But I think we’re the first number one show to ever get canceled"

While the show has welcomed countless celebrity guests over the years, here are the top five must-watch appearances you shouldn't miss.

Disclaimer: The following list is based on the writer's personal opinions. Reader discretion is advised.

Top 5 guest appearances on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that are a must-watch

1) Christopher Nolan (2024)

Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer became a blockbuster just after its release. The interview revolved around the movie, which Nolan describes as a piece of history. He also talked about the writing and thinking process behind his film and casting.

The interview also involves a fun fact-check segment. In another segment, Nolan breaks down the fan theories. For the fans of Nolan, it's a very interesting watch, as he also talks about the music he uses in his movies and how he implies his own ideas.

2) Malala Yousafzai (2015)

The education activist, Malala Yousafzai, was invited to Colbert's show ten years ago, where she opened up on the importance of education for women. The video also had a fun segment of card games, with both showing tricks. Malala also asks Colbert to choose a number from the deck of cards, and she later finds the same card he chose initially, leaving him surprised.

The episode also focused on her documentary titled He Named Me Malala, with Colbert promoting it at the end of the segment.

3) Taylor Swift (2021)

Four years ago, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert featured Taylor Swift in an online interview. During the interview, Stephen Colbert also asks Swift if her song Hey Stephen from Fearless was about him, with Taylor saying no since she was very young when she wrote the song.

Stephen, famous for his casual interviews on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, left the audience laughing with his and Taylor's answers, sharing a funny conversation throughout. Taylor also brought a Stephen-themed mood board with Stephen trying to prove that her song was actually about him. The interview includes Taylor's clever lines and wordplay, which she is known for, making it a fun watch.

4) Gordon Ramsay (2017)

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert invited the British chef, Gordon Ramsay, for a fun talk. The interview dives into Ramsay's multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, shows, and his membership in the OBE. Colbert also shares his experience visiting restaurants and his childhood days.

Amidst the talks on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Colbert and Ramsay also talk about sandwiches. Colbert makes a live peanut butter sandwich on the set, which Ramsay throws away. The interview was loved by Ramsay fans who got to see a fun side of him.

5) Michelle Obama (2018)

Michelle Obama's appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has been one of the most loved episodes on the show so far. During the interview, Michelle opened up about her book Becoming and shared insights from it. Michelle also shared her experience of the White House and the pressures surrounding it.

During the interview, Colbert also asks Michelle about meeting Barack Obama, with Michelle revealing the proposal story.