In a delightful twist that blends culinary flair with philanthropy, Stephen Colbert and his wife, Evelyn McGee-Colbert, are set to produce and star in a new cooking show titled “Cooking Charity,” premiering in 2026. The 20-episode series will see the couple preparing one signature dish per episode, portioned into 50 servings to be distributed to homeless individuals or those facing hardships who participate as guests on the show. This initiative not only highlights their shared passion for cooking but also amplifies their commitment to community support, spreading compassion far beyond the kitchen.
Stephen Colbert, 61, the iconic host of CBS’s “The Late Show” since 2015, has long infused his career with humor and heart. Known for his satirical takes on politics and culture, Colbert has navigated a challenging 2025, including the show’s announced cancellation in May 2026 due to industry shifts, a writers’ strike, and his own health scare with emergency appendix surgery in November. Despite these hurdles, he earned the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights’ Ripple of Hope Award in December for advocating free speech and journalism. Now, as he transitions to new ventures like the collaborative “Freedom Show” with Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon, “Cooking Charity” represents a personal pivot, drawing from his South Carolina roots and family traditions.
Evelyn McGee-Colbert, 62, a talented producer and actress, has been Stephen’s partner in life and work for over three decades. Together, they run Spartina Productions, named after the resilient grass of Charleston’s marshes, symbolizing their enduring bond. Their 2024 cookbook, “Does This Taste Funny?: Recipes Our Family Loves,” became a bestseller, featuring Lowcountry-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits, born from pandemic lockdowns on Sullivan’s Island. The book, filled with humorous anecdotes—including a infamous spoon mishap—showcased their playful dynamic in the kitchen. Evelyn’s background in theater and film production ensures the show will be polished, with episodes filmed in a cozy studio kitchen, incorporating guest appearances from celebrities and chefs to add star power.
Each episode of “Cooking Charity” will focus on accessible, comforting recipes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and simple techniques to inspire home cooks. The 50 portions per dish will be shared on-site with participants from local shelters or community programs, fostering direct interaction and stories of resilience. Over 20 episodes, this equates to 1,000 meals, addressing food insecurity while promoting empathy. The Colberts plan to partner with organizations like Feeding America, aligning with Stephen’s history of philanthropy—he’s supported veterans through the Yellow Ribbon Fund and raised funds for education via DonorsChoose.
The show’s format encourages viewer involvement, with calls for recipe submissions and virtual challenges to replicate dishes for local charities. Production begins in spring 2026, potentially streaming on a platform like Paramount+ or Netflix, capitalizing on the couple’s charm and Colbert’s massive following. Insiders note the project stems from their desire to give back after a tumultuous year, turning personal challenges into communal good.
This venture underscores the Colberts’ “golden hearts,” as fans dub them, not just aiding immediate needs but inspiring widespread acts of kindness. In an era of division, “Cooking Charity” serves as a reminder that food can bridge gaps, nourish bodies, and heal spirits. As Stephen once quipped in an interview, “Laughter is great, but a good meal shared changes lives.” With this show, the Colberts are poised to do just that, one plate at a time.
