What does Stephen Colbert’s recent joke about Skyline Chili and his new film project reveal about his current endeavors? Colbert’s humor and creativity are on full display as he prepares for his final episode of ‘The Late Show’ on May 21, 2026, while also venturing into the world of Middle-earth.
On March 18, 2026, during his monologue, Colbert made a light-hearted joke referencing an asteroid explosion above Ohio, which produced a shockwave equivalent to 250 tons of TNT. He quipped, “And now, to the skies, where yesterday, an asteroid exploded above Ohio, producing a shockwave with a force of 250 tons of TNT. Everyone’s OK, but it was the biggest explosion in Ohio since your uncle tried to Skyline 3-way.” This joke not only showcased his comedic talent but also highlighted the iconic Skyline Chili dish, known for its unique combination of spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheese.
In addition to his comedic pursuits, Colbert is co-writing a new ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie titled ‘The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past.’ This project is particularly significant as it is being developed at Warner Bros., with Colbert collaborating with notable writers including Philippa Boyens, who co-wrote the original ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. The film aims to explore chapters from ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’ that were not included in the original adaptation, providing fans with a fresh perspective on the beloved story.
The plot of Colbert’s upcoming movie will focus on Frodo’s friends, Sam, Merry, and Pippin, as they set out to retrace their adventure fourteen years after Frodo’s passing. This narrative choice reflects Colbert’s deep connection to the source material, as he has expressed his admiration for the books and their impact on him. He stated, “You know what the books mean to me, and what your films mean to me,” emphasizing the personal significance of the project.
Colbert’s involvement in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ franchise is not entirely new; he had a small role in ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.’ His transition from a late-night host to a film co-writer marks an exciting evolution in his career, showcasing his versatility and passion for storytelling.
As fans eagerly await the release of ‘The Hunt for Gollum,’ set to premiere on December 17, 2027, Colbert’s film will follow closely behind, offering a new chapter in the expansive lore of Middle-earth. The anticipation surrounding these projects highlights the enduring popularity of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and the creative potential it continues to inspire.
With Colbert’s final episode of ‘The Late Show’ approaching, viewers are left to wonder how he will balance his comedic legacy with his new ventures in filmmaking. As he embarks on this new journey, details remain unconfirmed about how his late-night persona will influence his storytelling in the realm of fantasy. Nevertheless, Colbert’s unique blend of humor and creativity promises to bring a fresh take to the beloved ‘Lord of the Rings’ universe.