Cosmic Conversations: Shatner and Tyson Ignite Chaos on Colbert

On June 9, 2025, actor William Shatner and astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson took center stage on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, delivering an electrifying performance filled with spontaneous humor and profound insights. The dynamic duo, both alumni of the Space2Sea expedition, showcased their unique chemistry, captivating audiences with what is being dubbed "cosmic banter".

During the show, Tyson humorously described his role as one aimed at “rescuing” Shatner from his existential worries regarding the universe. In response, Shatner exhibited his trademark wit and energy, humorously steering the conversation into what Colbert referred to as the “Shatner Zone.” This playful exploration ventured from the science of penguin excrement to deep philosophical discussions about spirituality, animism, and consciousness.

The segment was more than just entertainment; it served as a teaser for their upcoming live event, "ROCKING The Universe is Absurd," scheduled for June 18, 2025, in Seattle. This live stage appearance promises audiences a continuation of the whimsical yet insightful dialogue that Shatner and Tyson have perfected.

Daniel Fox, co-founder of FUTURE of SPACE, hailed the duo as the ultimate yin and yang. He noted their ability to blend cosmic wonder with razor-sharp reasoning, creating a perfect balance that forms the crux of their shared performances. He stated, "That's the magic of the show — pure, unscripted chemistry that entertains as much as it enlightens."

The CEO of FUTURE of SPACE, Tristan Tanovan-Fox, shared a similar sentiment, highlighting the unpredictable and engaging essence of their conversations. He said, "What happens when you put two of our era's most captivating thinkers on stage and let their genuine curiosity lead the way? Their conversation proves that the biggest, most absurd questions are often the most entertaining and important ones to ask."

Stephen Colbert himself couldn't help but praise their engaging banter, calling it "out of this world," a sentiment that resonated with viewers who enjoyed the blend of humor and depth. Shatner and Tyson's lively repartee is reminiscent of an old married couple, with a dynamic that constantly shifts between hilarity and profundity.

The event, ROCKING The Universe is Absurd, will take place for one night only in Seattle at McCaw Hall. It's an occasion that fans of both personalities won’t want to miss, especially after witnessing the palpable energy on The Late Show. Tickets are available now exclusively through Ticketmaster.

Together, Shatner and Tyson have cultivated a remarkable rapport that is both thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. Following their shared experience on the December 2024 Space2Sea Voyage of Legends expedition to Antarctica, this onstage event marks their return to the spotlight, promising audiences an unscripted exploration of the absurdities of the universe.

Event Details:

- When: June 18, 2025, 7:30 PM PT
- Where: McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98109
- Tickets: Available now at Ticketmaster

Both William Shatner and Neil deGrasse Tyson continue to capture the imagination of their audiences, each in their own right. Shatner, at 94 years old, remains a legendary figure in entertainment, recognized for his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek among other accolades. Tyson, on the other hand, stands as a prominent figure in science communication, promoting a passion for astronomy and the cosmos artfully through platforms like StarTalk.

Their collaboration on the upcoming live stage event promises a night filled with laughter and enlightenment, inviting the audience to delve into existential musings wrapped in comedic genius. It’s bound to be an experience that resonates beyond entertainment, touching on the very essence of humanity's quest for understanding our place in the universe.