The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is set to host a reunion of the Strike Force Five, a group of late-night hosts who came together during the 2023 writers' strike. This exclusive event, which has not been confirmed by CBS, will see Seth Meyers, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Stephen Colbert appear on the show together. The reunion marks the first time all five hosts have appeared on a single late-night stage, and it's a testament to the genuine camaraderie that has developed among this generation of late-night hosts.
The Strike Force Five podcast, which began as a private weekly Zoom check-in, evolved into a successful fundraiser for out-of-work staffers. It showcased the hosts' ability to improvise and create engaging content without their usual behind-the-scenes support system. The podcast's popularity and the hosts' genuine connection set it apart from the rivalry that has traditionally characterized the late-night genre.
The upcoming reunion is more than just a get-together; it's a victory lap and a farewell for Stephen Colbert, who is set to leave CBS after his final episode on May 21. The event will also be a reminder of the best moments of this era of late night, where hosts have shown up for each other in real life and on their shows. The Late Show will be the only network late-night show airing a new episode on Monday night, with Meyers and Fallon canceling their tapings and Kimmel's show dark all week.
This reunion is a significant moment in late-night TV, highlighting the shift from rivalry to camaraderie among hosts. It's a celebration of the power of collaboration and the impact it can have on the industry. As Colbert's era at CBS comes to an end, this reunion is a fitting send-off, showcasing the talent and friendship that has defined his time on the network.
