Stephen Colbert's Late Show Struggles: A Case of Declining Viewership

Viewership Plummets to All-Time Lows

Stephen Colbert's Late Show is experiencing a significant decline in viewership, hitting some of its lowest ratings in history. The drop is particularly stark in the crucial 25–54 demographic, with an average of 285,000 viewers, putting the show on track for its worst January performance ever.

Yearly and Weekly Decline

Throughout 2025, the show averaged 2.545 million viewers, but last week, that number dropped to 2.249 million. Despite outperforming competitors like Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon, Colbert's ratings are overshadowed by Greg Gutfeld's 3.2 million viewers on Fox News, notable because Gutfeld's show is cable-exclusive, while Colbert's is on a broadcast network.

Controversy Fails to Boost Ratings

Contrary to expectations, the controversy surrounding the show's cancellation hasn't boosted viewership. Instead, the declining numbers support the decision to cancel. It appears that the audience isn't there, even in a politically aligned country.

Core Issues with the Show

The primary issue with The Late Show has always been its lack of genuine entertainment value. Colbert's humor often falls flat, and his segments come across as more of a lecture than a comedy routine. His strong political bias and lack of charisma have alienated many viewers. Even those who share his political views may find his approach tiresome over time.

Comparison with Other Late-Night Hosts

Comparing Colbert to other late-night hosts like Bill Maher and Greg Gutfeld highlights his shortcomings. Maher, despite his own biases, knows how to deliver a joke effectively. Gutfeld, on the other hand, combines great writing with charm and self-deprecation, making him more likable and entertaining. Colbert, unfortunately, lacks these qualities, leaving his show with little to offer.