Bette Midler delivered a memorable, emotional tribute to Stephen Colbert on “The Late Show,” adapting her classic “Wind Beneath My Wings” with a “Lord of the Rings” twist, honoring his impact and continuing her tradition of heartfelt late-night farewells as his show nears its conclusion.
In a moment that blended heartfelt emotion with signature wit, legendary singer and actress Bette Midler serenaded Stephen Colbert on The Late Show, delivering a custom rendition of her iconic song, “Wind Beneath My Wings.” The performance was infused with references to J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” and poignant praise for Colbert’s nearly decade-long tenure, leaving the host visibly moved and audiences cheering.
Midler, known for her powerful voice and stage presence, brought a scroll of lyrics to the CBS set, humorously identifying it as Colbert’s “diploma.” What followed was a deeply personal and public thank you for Colbert’s contributions to late-night television and, more profoundly, his role as a voice of reason in challenging times.
A History of Heartfelt Farewell Serensades
This wasn’t Bette Midler’s first time bidding a musical farewell to a late-night icon. She famously serenaded Johnny Carson during his penultimate episode of The Tonight Show in 1992, a performance that has since become legendary. Her return to the tradition for Stephen Colbert underscores the deep respect and affection she holds for these cultural figures.
“I have a long reputation for singing certain talk show hosts off the air,” Midler quipped, acknowledging her unique role in late-night history. This sentiment adds a layer of continuity, linking Colbert to the pantheon of celebrated hosts whom Midler has personally honored.
More Than Just a Song: A Tribute to Sanity and Honor
Beyond the humor and the cinematic references, Midler’s serenade was a profound statement of gratitude. She expressed deep personal thanks to Stephen Colbert for his unwavering presence over the past nine and a half years.
“I would not — and I mean this from the bottom of my heart — I would not have made it through without you,” Midler confessed, openly admitting she was on the verge of tears. She lauded Colbert for being a “voice of sanity, and reason, and honesty and most important, honor.” This powerful endorsement resonated deeply with the audience and likely with countless viewers who have found solace and clarity in Colbert’s commentary.
“My Frodo”: A ‘Lord of the Rings’ Ode
A highlight of the performance was the clever integration of “Lord of the Rings” elements, a nod to Stephen Colbert’s well-documented and passionate fandom for J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy saga. Midler’s son-in-law reminded her of Colbert’s love for the franchise, inspiring the unique spin on the lyrics.
Midler sang:
- “Did you ever know that you’re my Frodo? You stand for what’s right, with wit and class.”
- “And I hold you high as the great eagles because you never kissed the orange ass.”
The “orange ass” line, a clear reference to former President Donald Trump, drew loud cheers from the audience, highlighting Colbert’s consistent political stance and his role as a critic of the former administration. The song, primarily penned by Eric Kornfeld, masterfully intertwined personal tribute with cultural commentary.
The references continued throughout the song:
- Frodo Baggins, the unassuming hero tasked with carrying the One Ring, symbolized Colbert’s integrity.
- The Great Eagles, majestic beings that frequently intervene to rescue heroes, represented Colbert’s stature and impact.
- The final verse’s call to “Fly, fly, fly away / Like Gandalf’s golden wings” further solidified the connection to Tolkien’s world, positioning Colbert as a wise and guiding figure.
The Emotional Performance
Colbert was visibly touched by the performance, smiling and laughing before becoming teary-eyed. He attempted to hug Midler after the “orange ass” line, but she humorously held him off, declaring, “Wait, wait! This is the best part!”
The full emotional performance can be watched here:
After the song, a visibly moved Colbert joked, “Well, everybody, thank you for joining us for my last show!” Midler quickly interjected, “I know it’s not your last show, but who the f— knows what’s gonna happen? I mean every day, day to day, minute to minute.”
The End of an Era: What’s Next for The Late Show
While Colbert’s show isn’t ending immediately, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is slated to conclude in May 2026. This looming farewell adds a layer of bittersweet anticipation to Midler’s performance, making her tribute all the more significant. It transforms a routine talk show appearance into a pivotal moment in late-night television history, celebrated by a true entertainment legend.
Bette Midler’s Enduring Legacy
Aside from her iconic musical and acting career, Bette Midler continues her philanthropic efforts, stopping by The Late Show to promote her annual Hulaween benefit for the New York Restoration Project. Her ability to blend her artistic talents with her advocacy, coupled with her bold and honest persona, ensures her status as a beloved and enduring cultural icon.
