Colbert's Late Show: A Shocking Exit and Industry Shake-Up

CBS Announces Cancellation Stephen Colbert, the former star of CBS' The Late Show, is stepping down after the network announced the cancellation of his show in July. The final episode is set for May 2026.

Controversial Timing

The decision sparked widespread discussion, especially as it followed Colbert's criticism of CBS's parent company, Paramount Global, for settling a lawsuit with former President Donald Trump.

Political vs. Financial Motivations

Colbert's show was known for its strong political commentary, often targeting Trump and supporting Democratic views. However, CBS maintained that the cancellation was purely financial, citing a yearly loss of around $40 million and the declining profitability of late-night TV.

Suspicious Timing and Political Accusations

Some observers found the timing suspicious, as it coincided with Paramount's attempted merger with Skydance Media, which required approval from Trump's FCC chair. Critics, including prominent Democrats, accused CBS of making a political move. CBS denied these claims, insisting it was a business decision.

Impact on Late-Night TV

The news sent shockwaves through the late-night TV landscape. Despite strong ratings in its time slot, Colbert's show wasn't beating Fox News' Greg Gutfeld. Experts suggest that declining viewership of traditional TV is making late-night shows less valuable.

Colbert's Future

Colbert has continued to voice his opinions, featuring high-profile guests like Taylor Swift and political figures such as Jen Psaki and Rachel Maddow. However, with his show ending soon, his next steps remain uncertain.