Bette Midler brought a mix of humor, reverence, and late-night television nostalgia to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert this week, honoring the host with a heartfelt musical tribute that was equal parts sentimental and savage. And of course, no Colbert tribute would be complete without at least one hobbit reference.
Appearing on Tuesday night's show, the legendary entertainer praised him for his blend of political insight and comedic integrity through turbulent times over the past decade. “I would not have made it through without you," Midler said right off the bat. "I really wouldn't have. You were a voice of sanity and reason and honesty and most important, honor," she added, drawing applause from the Late Show crowd.
Midler's compliments addressed the elephant in the room: Colbert's time at The Late Show is running out. So in a throwback to Midler serenading Johnny Carson during his final days at The Tonight Show, the singer launched into an original ballad to commemorate Colbert's iconic late-night run.
"It must have been cold here at The Late Show," Midler began. "Despite the high ratings and awards. You need a gig that's more worthwhile, now that you're more in demand than the Epstein file."
Then came the Lord of the Rings references. "Did you ever know that you're my Frodo? You stand for what's right with wit and class. And I hold you as high as the great eagles, 'cause you never kissed the orange ass."
"Fly, fly, fly away, like Gandalf's golden wings," she finished. "Thank you, thank god for you, the lord of all our rings." Colbert was moved by the song, however simple and silly it may have been. And the Late Show audience clearly appreciated getting a one-of-a-kind performance from a showbiz legend.
Midler's praise for Colbert and what he accomplished at The Late Show carried extra weight, too. After all, Midler has seen it all, from the golden age of variety television to today’s viral culture. With a career spanning over five decades, her salute to Colbert recognition from a bona fide entertainment icon who knows what it takes to stay relevant and funny night after night.
Colbert wisely did not compare himself to Johnny Carson despite getting a similar send-off from Midler. But like the legendary Tonight Show host, Colbert has done late-night TV on his own terms and earned his place in television history. It won't be easy for Colbert to say goodbye to his Late Show gig, but knowing he has the respect of someone as revered in Hollywood as Bette Midler.