Stephen Colbert and Friends Take on Elsbeth

Stephen Colbert is stepping back into the spotlight, but not in the way you'd expect. He's trading his Late Show desk for a role in the CBS dramedy Elsbeth. This isn't just any role, though. Colbert will play Scotty Bristol, the host of a fictional late-night show called "Way Late With Scotty Bristol. " The show's third season is set to premiere on October 12, 2025, and it's already making waves with its star-studded guest list. Joining Colbert are Amy Sedaris, Andy Richter, and Lindsay Mendez. Sedaris will play Laurel Hammond-Muntz, the head writer and executive producer of the late-night show. Richter will take on the role of Mickey Muntz, the sidekick to Colbert's character and Laurel's husband. Mendez will portray Officer Grace Hackett, a police officer with a passion for stand-up comedy. Her unique background could prove crucial when she teams up with Elsbeth on a case involving the comedy world. Colbert's interest in appearing on Elsbeth was first mentioned in February 2025 during an interview with Wendell Pierce. He jokingly asked if Pierce could help him land a role, even suggesting he'd be willing to play a corpse. It seems Colbert's wish has come true, but in a much more substantial way. His character, Bristol, could be a nod to Colbert's own experiences as a late-night host, especially given that his real-life show, The Late Show, is set to end in May 2026. The addition of Sedaris, Richter, and Mendez to the cast is a significant move. Sedaris is known for her Emmy-nominated work on "At Home with Amy Sedaris, " Richter has a long history with late-night television, and Mendez is a Tony winner. Their presence suggests that CBS is serious about making Elsbeth a hit. Colbert's return to late-night television, even in a fictional capacity, is a big deal. It's a chance for him to reflect on his career and connect with fans in a new way. The blend of humor and real-life references could make for an entertaining and thought-provoking season. It's also a reminder that Colbert is still a major player in the world of comedy. The upcoming season of Elsbeth is shaping up to be one of its most controversial yet. With Colbert playing a late-night host and a cast of well-known guest stars, the show is blurring the lines between reality and fiction. It's a bold move that's sure to spark curiosity and debate. As fans eagerly await the premiere, one thing is clear: Elsbeth is about to get a lot more interesting.