Stephen Colbert addresses bold new look months after Late Show end

The 62-year-old former Late Show star stemmed out at the Emmys on Monday (14.09.26) sporting a full grey goatee, and he described his bold new appearance as "a beard-bot".

Speaking to E! News, he quipped: "This is all AI. This isn't actually on my face.

"This isn't actually on my face. This could transform at any moment into a robot or something.

"This is a beard-bot. I've got to deal with Michael Bay and Gillette."

Colbert was in high spirits after taking home the prize for Outstanding Variety Series months after The Late Show came to an end on CBS in May 2026.

However, he played down the idea of returning to late night television.

Referencing Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel, he teased: "I think the Jimmys have got that locked down for right now. But thank you for the invitation."

Colbert is keeping busy, and he gave a nod to his ongoing work writing a new Lord of the Rings movie as he joked that "there's no internet in Middle-earth".

During his acceptance speech at the Emmys, he thanked the people behind the Late Show, which was on air for 33 years.

He said: "Thank you so much on behalf of the over 200 people who threw themselves at this show for 11 years to try to do the best show they possibly could for you.

"The thing about these late shows is that besides being a really good steady job is that they require so many people that they’re a fantastic incubator for young people to come into work professionally on a deadline in cooperation, in collaboration, and that is the future of our business that we have to look after.

"I want you to know I got some great news: They are all tech avail. Hire them; they will make your show better, and they will make your day easier.”

Stephen then grew more serious as he thanked his guests over the years, as well as his audience, and paid tribute to his beloved wife Evelyn McGee.

Over the last 21 years, I’ve interviewed at least a thousand of you. Thank you for coming on to talk to this idiot, I want you to know that you were the perfect guest. The segment went great, and I’m sorry I forgot to play your clip. But of course, there can only be one favorite guest, and that is my wife, Evie McGee. Thank you, darling.