What happens when a beloved late-night host makes a joke about a local delicacy? In Cincinnati, Ohio, that question was answered when Stephen Colbert, during his monologue on March 18, 2026, humorously referenced Skyline Chili in light of an asteroid explosion that occurred above the state. Colbert quipped, “And now, to the skies, where yesterday, an asteroid exploded above Ohio, producing a shockwave with a force of 250 tons of TNT. Everyone’s OK, but it was the biggest explosion in Ohio since your uncle tried to Skyline 3-way.” This light-hearted jab at the city’s iconic dish, known for its unique combination of spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheese, resonated with locals and fans alike.
Colbert’s connection to Cincinnati goes beyond just a punchline; he is also making headlines for his upcoming film project. The comedian is co-writing a new ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie titled ‘The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past’ alongside his son and several other writers. This film, set to be developed at Warner Bros., will explore chapters from ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’ that were not included in the original film adaptation. Colbert expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The thing I found myself reading over and over again were the six chapters early on in The Fellowship [of the Ring] that y’all never developed into the first movie back in the day.”
Fans of the franchise can look forward to a fresh narrative that revisits the adventures of Frodo’s friends fourteen years after his passing. The synopsis reveals that Sam, Merry, and Pippin will set out to retrace their steps from their original journey, providing a nostalgic yet new perspective on the beloved story. This film is set to follow the release of ‘The Hunt for Gollum,’ which is scheduled for December 17, 2027.
Colbert, who has long been a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, had a small role in ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,’ further solidifying his connection to the franchise. His collaboration with Philippa Boyens, who co-wrote the original ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy, adds a layer of authenticity and excitement to the project. Colbert’s passion for the source material is evident in his remarks, as he acknowledges the significance of the books and films to him personally, saying, “You know what the books mean to me, and what your films mean to me.”
As Colbert prepares for his final episode of ‘The Late Show’ on May 21, 2026, fans are left wondering what the future holds for the beloved host. His foray into the world of Middle-earth is a testament to his enduring love for storytelling and comedy. The blend of humor and heartfelt narratives is something that Colbert has mastered over the years, making him a cherished figure in the entertainment industry.
While the Skyline Chili joke brought a smile to many faces, it also served as a reminder of the community’s resilience and sense of humor in the face of unexpected events. The asteroid explosion, although startling, was met with laughter and camaraderie, showcasing the spirit of Cincinnati. As the city continues to embrace its unique culinary offerings, Colbert’s playful nod to Skyline Chili will surely be remembered.
Looking ahead, fans eagerly anticipate both the release of Colbert’s new film and the final episodes of ‘The Late Show.’ Details remain unconfirmed about how Colbert will transition from late-night television to film, but his journey promises to be as entertaining as his monologues. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and creativity, Stephen Colbert is set to leave a lasting impact on both the comedy and film landscapes.
