Stephen Colbert’s Peanuts joke comes with one unexpected twist

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Stephen Colbert has always included music in his performances. He’s even written some great songs himself, like “Charlene (I’m Right Behind You)”—it’s well worth a listen! Similar to Colbert’s show, the song is both humorous and energetic.

The show is ending due to business and possibly political factors, but it will probably return at some point, though not with Stephen Colbert. Prepare for a much less exciting version, regardless of what critics say.

During his final show on Thursday, May 21st, Stephen Colbert addressed some recent legal issues. Lee Mendelson Film Productions had filed lawsuits claiming unauthorized use of music from the Peanuts (or Charlie Brown) series, and as Colbert discussed it, his house band played the iconic Peanuts theme song. The segment was both humorous and thought-provoking.

Stephen Colbert’s joke about CBS and Peanuts comes with cruel strings

The irony was that CBS, while effectively ending Colbert’s show, would still be responsible for the cost of the music used on it. However, Colbert likely knew CBS wouldn’t actually have to pay anything, because the music license is held by BMI – an organization CBS already pays.

Even though Stephen Colbert wanted to, he couldn’t fully distance himself from CBS. The joke he made was amusing, but it would have had a greater impact if CBS had actually been penalized with a fine.

In reality, CBS probably would have prevented the situation from happening. Since The Late Show is recorded live, the network had the opportunity to review the episode before it went on air. If the segment risked losing money, CBS likely would have edited it out.

Despite some flaws, the show featured truly memorable musical performances, particularly the finale where Stephen Colbert sang “Hello, Goodbye” alongside Paul McCartney. The two then symbolically turned off the lights at the Ed Sullivan Theater – a fitting gesture considering McCartney’s Beatles first appeared on American television there in 1964, a moment that revolutionized music.

Bruce Springsteen appeared on Colbert’s show the previous night, delivering a powerful performance of his protest song, “Streets of Minneapolis.” He also shared his thoughts on why Colbert was leaving, echoing the feelings of many. It’s a reminder that music can be a force for change.

Stephen Colbert isn’t retiring anytime soon! He’s currently helping to write a script for a new Lord of the Rings movie, and everyone’s hoping he’ll continue to be involved with music as well.

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2026-05-23 19:30