Stephen Colbert returned to his comedic roots in unexpected fashion, hosting a community access program in Michigan just one day after taping his final episode of “The Late Show” on CBS.

The comedian made a surprise appearance as the guest host of “Only in Monroe,” a southeastern Michigan broadcast produced along the shores of Lake Erie.

Joining Colbert was Detroit native and musician Jack White, who took on the title of “volunteer music director.”

“Looking forward to hearing some of your music, time permitting,” Colbert joked with White, drawing laughs from the small off-camera audience.

Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

Over the course of the hourlong episode, Colbert leaned heavily into local humor and Michigan-centric references. Actor Jeff Daniels sat down for an interview filled with friendly banter about the state’s quirks.

The broadcast also included a recorded sketch featuring actor Steve Buscemi, who made fun of a fictional pizza shop called Buscemi’s Pizza in Monroe.

Rapper Eminem appeared in a taped segment as a “fire marshal,” humorously inspecting and approving the destruction of Colbert’s set alongside White and Daniels at the end of the show.

Adding another cameo, Colbert connected via FaceTime with comedian Byron Allen. Allen’s syndicated show “Comics Unleashed” is set to replace Colbert’s recently canceled “Late Show.”

FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest

The episode’s original hosts, Michelle Baumann and former Miss America Kaye Lani Rae Rafko Wilson, joined Colbert for a lighthearted moment involving helium-filled balloons.

While discussing Baumann’s battle with cancer, all three temporarily altered their voices by inhaling helium, as a cheeky on-screen disclaimer warned, “Former professional TV host, do not try this at home.”

WATCH:

It was not Colbert’s first time behind the “Only in Monroe” desk.

He reminded viewers that he had hosted the same community broadcast once before in the summer of 2015, right before assuming late-night duties from David Letterman.

This latest edition aired precisely twenty-four hours after his farewell on CBS, maintaining Colbert’s trademark playfulness even in transition.

The quick turnaround appearance highlighted Colbert’s connection to small-town charm and comedic spontaneity, offering fans a relaxed and locally funny follow-up to his late-night finale.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Objectivist. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.