Colbert's Kissing Spree: A Farewell Full of Fun and Affection

The Precedent: A Surprising Smooch with Jimmy Fallon

The trend of on-air affection began when Colbert reunited with fellow late-night hosts Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers for a special segment. During a game where they discussed on-camera kisses, Colbert turned to Fallon, who playfully feigned protest. The interaction culminated in an unexpected kiss between the two hosts, leaving Fallon pleasantly surprised and the audience entertained.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus Joins the Fun

The following night, actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, having seen the viral moment with Fallon, expressed her playful desire to also be part of Colbert's growing list of on-screen kisses. After some witty exchanges, where Louis-Dreyfus quipped about the harmlessness of the act, the two shared a kiss, met with an enthusiastic response from the studio audience.

Pedro Pascal's Playful Request

The affectionate trend continued later in the same episode when actor Pedro Pascal, inspired by the earlier interactions, hinted at his own wish for a kiss from Colbert. The host and Pascal then shared a moment, eliciting more cheers from the crowd. Pascal playfully admitted to being jealous, to which Colbert responded with a lighthearted remark about his soon-to-be-free lips, alluding to the show's impending end.

A Legacy of On-Screen Affection

These recent events underscore a playful tradition Colbert has maintained throughout his tenure, having previously shared kisses with a host of other celebrities including Sally Field, Helen Mirren, and Andrew Garfield. Even without a full kiss, he recalled a humorous incident with Jane Fonda. These moments highlight the warm and entertaining atmosphere Colbert cultivated on his show, making his departure all the more memorable.

The Final Countdown

As "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert" prepares for its final broadcast on May 21st, these fun and unexpected interactions are creating a distinctive and memorable conclusion to an era. The playful displays of affection, particularly the recent series of kisses, serve as a testament to Colbert's engaging personality and the vibrant energy of his program.