Stephen Colbert, the charismatic host of "The Late Show," recently sparked widespread amusement and speculation during a guest appearance on "Late Night with Seth Meyers." As his current talk show tenure draws to a close on May 21st, Colbert light-heartedly expressed his interest in securing a new role at the iconic "Saturday Night Live." This candid moment, filled with comedic banter and nostalgic reflections on past auditions, has captivated audiences and fueled discussions about his future career endeavors.
Colbert's Playful Pitch for an SNL Role on "Late Night with Seth Meyers"
In a lively segment that aired on Tuesday, May 21st, 2026, on NBC's "Late Night with Seth Meyers," Stephen Colbert, renowned for his sharp wit and engaging humor, playfully hinted at his post-"Late Show" career aspirations. With "The Late Show" concluding its run, Colbert turned to his fellow late-night host, Seth Meyers, for assistance in landing a position at "Saturday Night Live." "Is Lorne here?" Colbert quipped, referring to SNL's long-time producer, Lorne Michaels. Meyers, quick to catch on, responded, "Lorne Michaels? Why? Do you want to talk to him about something?" Colbert's humorous reply, "Would you tell him I’m available in June? I don’t know if he’s still hiring," elicited laughter from the studio audience, highlighting his readiness for a new challenge. He further explained his motivation, stating, "I need a show, man. Not for the cash! I’m fine for cash. It’s just [my wife] Evie [McGee-Colbert] will want me out of the house." Meyers cleverly retorted, "If I can tell Lorne you will work for scale, that will help," adding to the comedic exchange. Colbert also recalled his previous unsuccessful SNL audition from 1997 or 1998, humorously mentioning his impressions of Al D'Amato and an unusual Robert De Niro that Meyers once described as "if De Niro had a kid with the Penguin." This exchange not only entertained viewers but also offered a glimpse into Colbert's enduring passion for sketch comedy and his playful pursuit of new opportunities.
This segment featuring Stephen Colbert and Seth Meyers transcends mere entertainment; it offers a compelling look into the camaraderie and shared history among late-night hosts. Colbert's audacious yet humorous pitch for an SNL role, despite his established career, serves as a reminder that even seasoned professionals harbor aspirations and are not immune to the challenges of career transitions. His willingness to self-deprecate, referencing his past failed audition, humanizes him and resonates with anyone who has faced rejection or sought a fresh start. The playful banter with Meyers, especially the suggestion of working "for scale," underscores the unique bond and mutual respect within the comedy world. Ultimately, the story highlights the importance of adaptability, humor, and leveraging one's network, even in the most high-profile of careers.