WeHo Bistro Acquires Stephen Colbert's Iconic 'Late Show' Sign

WeHo Bistro in West Hollywood has given one of late-night television's most recognisable symbols a new home after acquiring the iconic illuminated marquee from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The restaurant purchased the sign through an auction that raised funds for humanitarian organisation World Central Kitchen and has temporarily installed it on its rooftop before moving it inside for permanent display.

Television Landmark Moves to Restaurant

The oversized marquee greeted audiences outside New York City's Ed Sullivan Theater throughout Stephen Colbert's nearly 11-year tenure as host of The Late Show. Following the programme's conclusion, the sign was offered at auction, where it attracted 170 bids before being secured by WeHo Bistro.

The restaurant announced the acquisition through its social media channels on June 29, explaining that it wanted to preserve the piece of television history in a public setting rather than see it disappear into a private collection. According to the restaurant, the decision was also influenced by the fact that proceeds from the auction were directed to World Central Kitchen.

Rooftop Display Before Permanent Installation

WeHo Bistro has initially positioned the marquee on its rooftop, where it will remain for approximately two weeks. After that period, the sign will be relocated inside the restaurant and permanently installed on one of the dining room walls.

The restaurant said the permanent installation will allow visitors to continue viewing and photographing the landmark throughout the year, preserving its connection with fans of the long-running late-night programme.

Auction Followed Comedy Farewell Segment

The marquee first became available during the "Late Show Home Shopping" comedy segment that aired in April, featuring Stephen Colbert alongside fellow late-night host Jon Stewart. During the segment, Colbert jokingly encouraged viewers to purchase the sign, adding humour to what would become one of the programme's farewell moments.

The auction generated considerable interest, receiving 170 bids before WeHo Bistro secured the winning offer and announced plans to display the sign publicly.

Restaurant Adds Cultural Attraction

By acquiring the marquee, WeHo Bistro has added a distinctive cultural attraction to its restaurant, blending hospitality with entertainment history. The installation is expected to become a focal point for diners and television fans visiting the West Hollywood venue.

The acquisition also reflects a growing trend of restaurants incorporating unique memorabilia and cultural artefacts to enhance guest experiences while creating conversation pieces that extend beyond food and beverage offerings.

Sign Begins New Chapter After Show's Finale

The sign's relocation follows the conclusion of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which marked the end of Colbert's run and the franchise that began with David Letterman in 1993. The programme's final episode featured appearances by several celebrity guests before closing with a performance of the Beatles' "Hello, Goodbye."

While the television series has ended, its iconic marquee will remain accessible to the public through its new home at WeHo Bistro, allowing visitors to experience a piece of late-night television history in a restaurant setting. 

Sources: Hospitality Career Profile.