S1·E126 Tom Hanks, Leslie Odom Jr., The Strumbellas, Roy Haynes

Episode recap

The episode identified as season 1, episode 126 of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert opens with the host’s customary opening monologue, delivering his trademark satirical commentary on current events. Following the monologue, Colbert greets a slate of guests who appear throughout the broadcast. The first guest welcomed is veteran actor Tom Hanks, whose presence is highlighted by a brief on‑stage introduction. The conversation moves to Broadway and film as Leslie Odom Jr. joins Colbert; the host acknowledges Odom Jr.’s recent work and the two share a segment together.

Musical entertainment forms a central part of the program. The Strumbellas are invited to the stage for a live performance, delivering a set that showcases the band’s indie‑rock sound. The performance is presented in its entirety, allowing the audience to experience the group’s musical style within the talk‑show format.

The episode also features a jazz collaboration. Renowned drummer Roy Haynes appears as a special musical guest, sitting in with Jon Batiste and the house band Stay Human. Together they perform a joint piece, blending Haynes’s legendary jazz drumming with the contemporary rhythm section of Batiste’s ensemble. The segment highlights the interplay between the guest musician and the regular band, offering a distinct musical interlude that complements the earlier rock‑oriented set.

Throughout the broadcast, Stephen Colbert maintains the show’s blend of comedy, interview, and live music that defines the series. The episode’s structure—opening monologue, guest appearances, a band performance by The Strumbellas, and a jazz collaboration featuring Roy Haynes with Jon Batiste and Stay Human—provides a varied entertainment experience consistent with the program’s format. The episode concludes after the final musical number, wrapping up the night’s lineup of celebrity conversation and live performances.