As The Late Show with Stephen Colbert prepares to sign off, the host found a way to turn a sad situation into something positive. An auction featuring pieces of the show’s history became a force for good.
Earlier this month, Stephen Colbert announced he'd be selling off memorabilia from his entire late-night television career. In addition to commemorative shirts, pieces of the Late Show set and more were open for bids on eBay. All proceeds were designated for World Central Kitchen, Inc., the nonprofit organization founded by Late Show friend Chef José Andrés that provides meals in crisis areas.
Bidding on Colbert's memorabilia collection ended on April 29. The sale ultimately collected over $1 million for World Central Kitchen. The biggest sale came earlier this year, after VIP tickets to the Late Show‘s finale sold for $111,100.
Leading the pack from the eBay story was one of the most iconic visual elements of the show. A massive illuminated “Late Show” sign from the studio, measuring 12 feet wide and over eight fee high, the towering light-up fixture commanded a winning bid of $102,000, making it the top-selling item of the auction.
Coming in second was a prop Lord of the Rings sword that had been hanging on the Late Show set since day one. And for good measure, it also came with a prop flamethrower used in a sketch. The combo pulled in an impressive $35,100.
A “Certificate of Presidency” prepared by Colbert for his now-legendary 2006 appearance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where he delivered an epic satirical roast of then-President George W. Bush. The certificate, autographed by Colbert, sold for just over $15,000
Fans also had the opportunity to take home a literal piece of the show’s staging. The show's guest chair went for an eye-popping $30,300. The red carpet used by celebrity guests as they entered the Ed Sullivan Theater, complete with its symbolic gold star where guests would pause before being introduced, fetched $11,000.
Even smaller, more personal items found eager buyers. Several neckties worn by Colbert during The Late Show episodes were up for sale. The top-earning tie, autographed by Colbert, brought in $2,125. The host wore it during a June 2018 episode that featured guests Nick Offerman and Niecey Nash with a performance by Lykke Li.
The big furry hat used in early Late Show sketches added over $9,000 to the tally. And the cursed amulet and goat head that appeared in the premiere episode went for $4,500.
Perhaps it was Jon Stewart's recent (and possibly final) appearance on The Late Show last week that helped give the auction a bump. The Daily Show host joined Colbert for a "Home Shopping" inspired bit to promote the items up for sale.
As Colbert approaches his final broadcast, set for May 21, the success of the auction is a testament to the deep connection he’s built with his audience.
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