Stephen Colbert Sheds Beard, Adds Bandleader in 'Late Show' Promos
The first promos for "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" are here, and with them, Colbert loses his new beard, and gains a new bandleader.
The Colbert Report" in December and his work on "Late Show." "Good news! I still exist!" the host excitedly declares, before explaining that he's experimenting with a new look before beginning his new gig.
He then shaves off small portions of his beard one at a time, donning styles he dubs "un-Hitler," "half Wolverine," and finally, "classic clean Colbert." But the comedian can't help but be wistful about his shaven look, devoting a decidedly weird montage to his former facial hair that proves that he hasn't shed his goofy sensibilities just because he's moved down the dial.
The second promo introduces Colbert's "Late Show" bandleader, Jon Batiste. While the clip suggests that Colbert merely decided on the musician after eating a plateful of beignets in New Orleans, a release from CBS helps fill in the blanks a bit more.
According to the network, Batiste (who made a memorable appearance on "The Colbert Report" back in 2014) has gained an international following with his band, Stay Human, and has performed with artists including Prince and Lenny Kravitz. He appeared as himself on acclaimed HBO series "Treme," and also had a role in Spike Lee's 2012 flick "Red Hook Summer." Batiste currently serves as Artistic Director at Large of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, and has a full-length album due out later this year.
"His music makes the audience feel so good, we may have to install a 'Do Not Make Love' sign," Colbert said in a statement.
Batiste added in his own statement, "I'm thrilled! This is a match made in heaven. Get ready for a love riot in late night."
"The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" starts on September 8 on CBS.
Photo credit: YouTube