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Late-night television and Middle-earth just had an unexpected crossover, making for a moment that delighted Tolkien fans. A recent taping saw Stephen Colbert caught off guard by a news figure’s unusual token. In a playful nod to one of fantasy’s most iconic characters, Jake Tapper gifted Colbert a Gollum-inspired present post the Lord of the Rings announcement.
Jake Tapper gives Stephen Colbert a special LOTR painting
Jake Tapper surprised Stephen Colbert with a one-of-a-kind Lord of the Rings painting, a thoughtful gesture that blended fandom with artistry.
Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert this week, the CNN anchor marked what may be his final guest spot before the beloved host departs by bringing a gift for the Tolkien aficionado.
“I was thinking about how special you are to me, and how special this show [is],” Tapper said to Colbert, calling him “tough to shop for” just before handing over the gift.
Prior to his appearance, Tapper, who minored in art in college and continues to paint as a hobby, began considering ideas for a gift for Colbert. He revealed that after a staff member proposed a Hobbit or wizard in recognition of Colbert’s devotion to The Lord of the Rings. An undecisive Tapper eventually consulted Colbert’s wife, Evelyn, for the final input.
“She was like, ‘He’s got plenty of those. He doesn’t need another ‘Stephen Colbert as a Hobbit.’ He doesn’t need another ‘Stephen Colbert as a wizard,’” the media personality shared.
However, staying committed to the Middle-earth motif, Tapper revealed his painting on the show. It depicted Colbert reimagined as Gollum while he clutched the Ring. “It’s beautiful,” the gracious host said before delivering Gollum’s famous line, “My precious.”
Stephen Colbert will host his final Late Show on May 21, 2026. He and his son, screenwriter Peter McGee, are developing a new Lord of the Rings film with LOTR co-writer Philippa Boyens. Warner Bros. announced the project in a studio video featuring director Peter Jackson, who described it as part of a broader expansion of the fantasy franchise.
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