James Corden concluded his eight-year run on his US late-night talk show with assistance from Harry Styles, Will Ferrell, and President Joe Biden.
Ferrell and Styles destroyed the Late Late Show host’s desk, while Biden shared a video humorously stating he was “surprised you lasted eight years in any job.”
The British host’s departure blended laughter and heartfelt message.
As he signed off, he encouraged US viewers not to surrentder to those “trying to stoke differences” within the nation.
“Moving here to America eight years ago, it was a huge leap for me and my family,” he expressed. “My son was three, our daughter was 12 weeks old and we now have another small person, and she’s American.”
“Over the past eight years, I have seen America change a lot, with divisions growing and negativity boiling over. However, America has always been a place of optimism and joy, despite its flaws.”
He continued, “Disagreeing doesn’t make one bad. We’re mostly similar, not different. Don’t let anyone stir division. Seek joy and positivity, it’s possible.”
“And that’s all this show has ever been about. All we’ve ever wanted is just be a little bit of light and levity at the end of your day. Thank you for letting me do this, thank you for letting me into your home every night.”
In his pre-recorded message, the president told Corden, “I’ll miss you, buddy,” and expressed gratitude for “never making me sing in a car” – referencing Corden’s popular Carpool Karaoke segment.
Ferrell entered the set with a sledgehammer and started demolishing the desk.
Styles completed the task after Corden, who was playing a final round of Spill Your Guts Or Fill Your Guts, had to pick which of the two guests he thought was more skilled, and he chose the Elf and Anchorman actor.
During the game, where participants consume disgusting food if they refuse to answer a question, Styles was questioned about a One Direction reunion.
“I would never say never to that,” he answered. “If there came a time when we all felt that’s what we wanted to do, then I don’t see why we wouldn’t.”
“I’ll take that as a yes!” Corden replied.
The British singer told Corden he was “very proud of everything you’ve done” and that the host had been an “inspiration.”
“Selfishly, I’m very happy that you’re coming home, I love you so much,” he stated before the two embraced.
In another part of the show, fellow late-night hosts Seth Myers, Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and David Letterman participated in a sketch discussing Corden’s retirement plans and debating who would inherit Carpool Karaoke.
Adele, a long-time friend of Corden’s, appeared for a final Carpool Karaoke episode, which was broadcast as an hour-long special preceding the main show.
A segment featuring Corden and Tom Cruise playing Timon and Pumbaa in a Los Angeles production of The Lion King was also included.
In 2015, Corden succeeded comedian and actor Craig Ferguson as host of the late-night talk show and said that he had not anticipated the show’s success but described the journey as a “wonderful ride.”
Past guests on the show have featured Sir Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Justin Bieber, Stevie Wonder, and Mariah Carey.
Additionally, the show has seen repeat appearances from celebrities such as Josh Gad, Gal Gadot, Mila Kunis, the Jonas Brothers, and Billie Eilish.
