<P> The open is followed by an extended news satire style desk sequence with a run - through of recent headlines, in a manner reminiscent of television newscasts and that of The Colbert Report . Also, the show follows the same basic format as other late - night talk shows including the use of sketch comedy, guest interviews and musical performances . Colbert's guest list includes more political and government figures than his contemporaries; his first two weeks' guests included visits from Jeb Bush, Joe Biden, Ban Ki - moon, Stephen Breyer, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Donald Trump, and Ted Cruz . </P> <P> Thus far, Colbert has not had any of his staff act as a sidekick or straight man on the show . While Colbert dances and physically interacts with Jon Batiste while the band plays, they only occasionally engage in on - air banter, unlike David Letterman's relationship with Paul Shaffer or the relationship of other late night hosts with their announcers or bandleaders . After the first few episodes in which Colbert introduced himself, he now uses an off - screen announcer . Occasionally, Colbert has brought out producers of his show, or enlisted the help of audience members, who assume a sidekick - like role for single segments, engaging in light dialogue about a topic . </P> <P> In the show's series premiere, Colbert welcomed actor George Clooney and politician Jeb Bush, thanked former host David Letterman, and joined singer Mavis Staples and numerous other musicians for a rendition of Sly and the Family Stone's "Everyday People ." The episode nearly missed its broadcast due to technical difficulties . An early interview with Vice President Joe Biden received particular acclaim . </P> <P> Following the terrorist attacks in Paris that November, Colbert devoted his program to that city . A special football - themed episode aired as the lead - out program for Super Bowl 50 in 2016, featuring guests President Barack Obama (in a taped segment), Tina Fey, Margot Robbie, Will Ferrell, and Megyn Kelly . </P>

Who did stephen colbert welcome as his first guest on the late show
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