Iconic performer Bette Midler delivered a memorable and emotional farewell to Stephen Colbert on The Late Show, rewriting her classic hit ‘Wind Beneath My Wings‘ into a ‘Lord of the Rings‘-themed tribute that blended heartfelt gratitude with sharp political commentary, marking a poignant moment in late-night television history as Colbert’s show approaches its conclusion.
In a moment that blended heartfelt appreciation with her signature wit, the incomparable Bette Midler made a truly unforgettable appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. During her visit, ostensibly to promote her annual Hulaween benefit, Midler seized the opportunity to deliver a poignant and hilarious send-off to Stephen Colbert, whose show is slated for cancellation in 2026. This wasn’t just any tribute; it was a masterclass in celebrity farewells, complete with custom lyrics, political jabs, and a deep dive into Colbert’s beloved fandom.
A Legacy of Late-Night Farewells
Midler has a well-known history of delivering iconic farewells to late-night hosts. Most famously, she serenaded Johnny Carson during his final days on The Tonight Show in 1992. This tradition adds a layer of nostalgic significance to her recent appearance with Stephen Colbert. Her decision to once again use her powerful voice to mark a major transition in late-night television solidified her role as a compassionate and impactful figure in entertainment.
Colbert’s run on The Late Show began in 2015, following the departure of television legend David Letterman. Over the years, Colbert cultivated a reputation as a voice of reason and integrity, particularly amidst a tumultuous political landscape. His show’s cancellation, announced by CBS in July 2025, was cited as a financial decision, though critics have suggested it was influenced by broader corporate mergers, as reported by Parade.
“Wind Beneath My Frodo’s Wings”: A Tailored Tribute
For Colbert, Midler chose to spoof her iconic hit, “Wind Beneath My Wings,” from the beloved 1988 film Beaches. The choice was particularly apt, as the original song is synonymous with profound gratitude and deep admiration. Midler rewrote the lyrics to specifically laud Colbert’s nearly nine-and-a-half-year tenure, expressing profound personal and public thanks.
Midler told Colbert she penned the song because she “wanted to thank you personally and publicly for all you did for me these last 9 1/2 years,” emphasizing, “I mean this from the bottom of my heart… I would not have made it through without you.” She lauded him as “a voice of sanity and honesty, and most important, honor,” a sentiment that resonated deeply with his audience.
A Journey to Middle-earth and Beyond
Knowing Stephen Colbert is a devoted Lord of the Rings fan, Midler seamlessly wove references to J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic saga into her serenade. The most striking line, “Did you ever know that you’re my Frodo? You stand for what’s right with wit and class,” immediately struck a chord with both Colbert and the audience. It was a clever and endearing nod to his well-known passion, painting him as a steadfast hero navigating challenging times.
The ingenuity of Midler’s songwriting didn’t stop there. She didn’t shy away from injecting contemporary political commentary, characteristic of her outspoken public persona and Colbert’s own show. Her pointed lyrics included lines like: “It must have been cold here at The Late Show / Despite the high ratings and awards. You need a gig that’s more worthwhile / Now that you’re more in demand than Epstein’s file.” She then continued with an unmistakable jab at former President Donald Trump:
- “I hold you high as the great eagles,”
- “Because you never kissed the orange a**,”
Midler repeated the last line multiple times, even encouraging the audience to sing along, creating a collective moment of satirical defiance. The song concluded with a farewell fit for Middle-earth: “Fly, fly away! Like Gandalf’s golden wings / Thank you, thank you, thank God for you, the Lord of all our rings.”
The performance, which can be viewed through the Instagram video embed from The Late Show, left Stephen Colbert visibly moved. He embraced Midler warmly, and she reciprocated with a heartfelt “I love you,” underscoring the genuine bond between the two performers. Fans quickly lauded the performance online, calling it a “new protest song,” “brilliant,” and a “tribute we didn’t know we needed,” as noted by Parade.
Midler’s Philanthropic Efforts: Hulaween Benefit
In addition to the memorable serenade, Midler’s appearance served as a platform to highlight her ongoing philanthropic work with the New York Restoration Project (NYRP). The organization’s annual Hulaween benefit, a popular event, was scheduled for October 24th. The NYRP focuses on transforming open spaces in underserved communities into beautiful, healthy places for New Yorkers.
Tickets for the event were available through the official NYRP website, underscoring Midler’s commitment to using her platform for positive environmental and community impact. Details and tickets for the Hulaween event can be found at NYRP.org/Hulaween.
A Lasting Impact on Late Night
Bette Midler’s serenade for Stephen Colbert was more than just a musical performance; it was a deeply personal tribute, a political statement, and a heartwarming moment of connection that resonated with fans of both artists. As The Late Show with Stephen Colbert prepares for its final episodes at the end of the 2025-2026 broadcast season, this performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of its most iconic and touching farewells, cementing both Midler’s enduring legacy and Colbert’s impact on late-night television.
