Jon Stewart has told Stephen Colbert not to "confuse cancellation with failure".

The Daily Show star joined the Late Show host on Tuesday's (19.05.26) episode of the iconic long-running programme, which will end with its final ever episode on Thursday.

During the interview, he recalled advice from Late Show legend David Letterman after The Jon Stewart Show was cancelled after two years in 1995.

Stewart revealed: "He said, 'Don't confuse cancellation with failure.' I thought that was profound.

"But then he said, 'But in this case it is also a failure.'"

Towards the end of the interview, Stewart presented his former Daily Show correspondent with a couple of gifts, joking that he didn't have a talent to lean on.

He said: "Everybody has been coming up with a bit. They sang you a song, they wrote you a poem. I am not talented, so I'm not doing any of that.

"And also, why do that? An ephemeral wind of nothing that blows away like humbug. You deserve something tangible. Something you've earned.

"You deserve a gift that benefits the sacrifice and work that you have put into this show, and that can show you the life you can lead and the life that I am leading now that I'm not really in show business.

"So, boys, bring it out."

The first part of the gift was two luxury recliners brought out by stagehands.

As the two stars settled in their comfy seats, Stewart quipped: "You're going to enjoy watching Matlock in this motherf*****! Let me tell you something."

However, there was more to come as Stewart had a real surprise up his sleeve.

He added: "This tribute isn't complete. Stephen, this tribute doesn't represent the joy that you brought to me as my friend and the joy that you brought to this country as one of its leading entertainers.

"What this moment needs is something so much more. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Ms. Andra Day."

The Grammy Award-winning singer stepped out and gave Colbert a personal rendition of 2015's Rise Up.

The Late Show will end on Thursday, 10 months after the host confirmed CBS were cancelling the late night institution.

When it comes to Wednesday's (20.05.26) programme, guests are being kept under wraps, Bruce Springsteen has been announced as the musical performer.

Stephen announced the axing of The Late Show in July 2025.

The comedian - who replaced Letterman at the helm in 2015 - thanked CBS and TV viewers at the time for their support of the show.

He said: "I'm not being replaced. This is all just going away. I do want to say that the folks at CBS have been great partners … And I'm grateful to the audience, you, who have joined us every night, in here, out there, and all around the world."