BREAKING: Health Scare Forces Stephen Colbert To Urgently Cancel Shows

Stephen Colbert, the host of CBS’ ‘Late Show,’ has been forced to cancel this week’s shows due to a health emergency. Colbert shared on Instagram that he is recovering from surgery for a ruptured appendix.

Colbert wrote, “Sorry to say that I have to cancel our shows this week. I’m sure you’re thinking, ‘Turkey overdose, Steve? Gravy boat capsize?’ Actually, I’m recovering from surgery for a ruptured appendix.”

“I’m grateful to my doctors for their care and to Evie and the kids for putting up with me. Going forward, all emails to my appendix will be handled by my pancreas,” the host finished.

Recovery from a ruptured appendix typically takes longer than a standard appendectomy. If the surgery was laparoscopic, recovery might take 1 to 3 weeks, while open surgery could require 2 to 4 weeks.

The ‘Late Show’ was set to return with new episodes featuring high-profile guests like Jennifer Garner, Baz Luhrmann, Sir Patrick Stewart, Barbra Streisand, and Kelsey Grammer. Additionally, Jon Batiste, the show’s former band leader, was scheduled to appear as an interviewee and musical guest.

The incident marks the second medical issue to affect the ‘Late Show’ in recent months, following a week-long hiatus in October due to Colbert’s bout with COVID-19. The show also experienced downtime over the summer due to the WGA strike.

In May 2022, Colbert also exhibited symptoms that were in line with a possible COVID-19 recurrence. Consequently, he briefly hosted “The Late Show” from his home and then took a one-week hiatus.