Two days after Stephen Colbert signed off from his acclaimed eleven-year tenure as host of CBS’s "The Late Show," the beloved comedian made an unexpected and remarkably unpretentious return to the public eye, this time on a local public access channel in Monroe, Michigan. The surprise guest appearance on "Only in Monroe" aired on Friday, May 22nd, at 11:35 p.m., a mere 48 hours after his emotional CBS farewell, which captivated an impressive 6.74 million viewers. This swan song on a smaller stage, a stark contrast to the national broadcast, underscored Colbert’s characteristic wit and his deep appreciation for the roots of his comedic journey.
A Nod to the Past: The "Only in Monroe" Connection
The choice of "Only in Monroe" was not arbitrary. Colbert had personally foreshadowed this peculiar return during his final "The Late Show" broadcast. He reminisced about a 2015 episode of the Michigan public access program, describing it with a self-deprecating chuckle as "technically our first show… for an audience of 12 people." He quipped, with prescient humor, "Show business being what it is these days, that’s probably where you’ll see me next." This reference highlighted a full-circle moment, a callback to a less glamorous beginning that paved the way for his monumental success on a national platform.
The "Only in Monroe" show, hosted by Michelle Baumann and Kaye Lani Rae Rafko Wilson (Miss America 1988), had previously hosted Colbert in July 2015. At that time, he was preparing to take the reins of "The Late Show" from David Letterman and used the platform to conduct an interview with rap superstar Eminem, who hails from nearby St. Joseph, Michigan. This history lent a genuine sense of nostalgia and personal connection to Colbert’s latest appearance.
A Michigan Meltdown: Local Flavor and Celebrity Cameos
Friday night’s episode of "Only in Monroe" was a vibrant celebration of Michigan local culture, infused with the signature comedic flair of its guest host. The show featured an eclectic mix of guests and segments that paid homage to the Great Lakes State.
Musical Direction by a Rock Icon: Renowned musician Jack White, a Detroit native and frontman of The White Stripes, stepped in as the volunteer musical director for the episode. His involvement added a significant layer of local star power and artistic credibility to the public access program.
Culinary Delights from the Silver Screen: Actor Jeff Daniels, another prominent Michigan figure, made a guest appearance to prepare a unique culinary creation: a sandwich comprised of peanut butter, hand-crumbled Ruffles, and Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce. Daniels had previously described this unusual concoction during a "Late Show" appearance in March, and its live preparation on "Only in Monroe" provided a humorous and memorable moment.
A Public Service Announcement with a Twist: Actor Steve Buscemi, known for his distinctive voice and acting roles, appeared in a public service announcement for "Buscemi’s Pizza," a Monroe-based pizza chain. However, Buscemi was quick to clarify that he has absolutely no affiliation with the establishment, despite their shared surname. "All I know is Buscemi’s exists. I exist. We have the same name. And that’s where any connection ends," he stated emphatically, delivering his lines with his characteristic deadpan delivery.
Conversations and Conviviality: Colbert engaged in a brief FaceTime chat with Byron Allen, a Detroit native and media mogul who has taken over "The Late Show’s" traditional timeslot with back-to-back episodes of his syndicated show, "Comics Unleashed." The regular hosts, Baumann and Wilson, also joined Colbert in a toast, partaking in shots of Cain & Grain whiskey, a product of the River Raisin Distillery in Manchester, Michigan. This act of shared camaraderie symbolized a moment of local pride and collegiality.
A Fiery Farewell: The Ultimate Set Destruction
The climax of the "Only in Monroe" episode, and perhaps its most iconic moment, was the deliberate and theatrical destruction of the set. Colbert, joined by Jack White and Jeff Daniels, took part in dismantling the set – described as a version no longer in use by the show – and then proceeded to burn it in a flaming dumpster. This act of symbolic destruction served as a dramatic and cathartic conclusion to Colbert’s public access guest stint, mirroring the grand finale of his "Late Show" run.
Adding a final, humorous touch to the fiery spectacle, Eminem, born Marshall Mathers in nearby St. Joseph, Michigan, appeared via video to give the fire marshal’s all-clear for the blaze. Colbert had playfully joked about wanting official approval before proceeding with the fiery demolition, and Eminem’s video message provided the perfect, albeit informal, sign-off.
The Grand Finale: Reflecting on "The Late Show"
Colbert’s eleven-year journey at the helm of "The Late Show" concluded on Thursday, May 21st, with a finale that not only garnered significant viewership but also resonated with a profound sense of reflection and gratitude. The 6.74 million viewers who tuned in represented one of the strongest late-night farewell numbers in recent memory, underscoring the deep connection Colbert forged with his audience.
The final broadcast featured a powerful performance by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, a poignant reminder of the cultural impact "The Late Show" had on music and American life. The episode was further enhanced by heartfelt tributes from former presidents and a constellation of celebrities, each sharing their appreciation for Colbert’s insightful commentary and unique brand of humor. In his final monologue, Colbert eloquently reflected on the state of American democracy, a theme that had been a consistent undercurrent throughout his tenure, demonstrating his commitment to using his platform for thoughtful civic discourse.
The Unfolding Narrative: Hints and Anticipation
"Only in Monroe" had subtly hinted at Colbert’s impending return in a recent Instagram post, generating a buzz among local viewers and dedicated fans. However, the exact date of the episode’s filming remained undisclosed, adding an element of surprise to the broadcast. This strategic unveiling allowed the public access show to leverage the national attention surrounding Colbert’s departure from CBS, creating a compelling narrative that seamlessly bridged his national career with his local roots.
The decision to host "Only in Monroe" after concluding "The Late Show" speaks volumes about Colbert’s personality and his approach to his career. It demonstrates a profound humility, a willingness to connect with audiences on a grassroots level, and a playful acknowledgment of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. This unconventional encore, far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, provided a genuine and heartwarming conclusion to a remarkable chapter in late-night television history. The fiery destruction of the set, while visually dramatic, also symbolized a letting go, a transition into a new phase, albeit one that still embraces the spirit of spontaneous humor and authentic connection that defined Stephen Colbert’s reign.
