Stephen Colbert gave Architectural Digest a behind-the-scenes tour of the Ed Sullivan Theater set in New York City this week [1, 2].
The tour provides a final glimpse into the production's physical environment before the program concludes its run. As a historic landmark, the theater's preservation reflects the intersection of modern late-night television and New York City's architectural heritage.
During the walkthrough, Colbert highlighted the restoration of the theater's original dome and chandelier [1]. He also pointed out personal "Easter-egg" details integrated into the set design to provide a more intimate look at the workspace [1, 2].
Colbert said, "We’ve restored the original dome and chandelier, and added a few hidden doors for fun" [1]. The tour specifically highlighted three secret doors used within the theater [1].
An unnamed CBS senior producer said the Ed Sullivan Theater is a New York landmark and that the team is proud to preserve its legacy while giving it a modern twist [2]. The production sought to showcase the historic restoration as a tribute to the venue's long history of broadcasting [1, 2].
The tour was filmed in mid-May to coincide with the show's closing ceremonies. A CNN media analyst said Colbert’s final week will be a celebration of the show’s history [3].
The program is scheduled to air its final episode on May 21, 2026 [3].
“"We’ve restored the original dome and chandelier, and added a few hidden doors for fun,"”
The decision to highlight the architectural restoration of the Ed Sullivan Theater serves as a symbolic closing chapter for the program. By focusing on the venue's status as a New York landmark, the production emphasizes the show's place within a larger lineage of American broadcasting, framing the series finale as both a personal conclusion for Colbert and a preservation of the theater's historical legacy.
