CBS has declared that 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' will come to a close in May 2026, concluding the broadcast network's prominent late-night series. The revelation emerged during a recent taping, where Colbert informed the studio audience of the show's impending finale. The announcement arrived in the wake of Colbert's outspoken criticism of CBS's decision to settle a lawsuit with former President Donald Trump.
The legal dispute revolved around accusations that CBS had misleadingly edited an interview with then–Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential campaign. The interview became a contentious issue, with CBS facing allegations of footage manipulation. Opting for a private settlement with Trump, the network's choice was publicly denounced by Colbert, who expressed his dismay and quipped that a $16 million settlement might alleviate his distrust.
Colbert's comments garnered significant attention, seemingly straining the relationship between the host and CBS. The network, in response, released a press statement, accompanied by an Instagram clip of Colbert's announcement. Colbert shared with his audience that he was informed of the decision only the night before.
CBS executives lauded Colbert's contributions and confirmed that the 'The Late Show' brand would be retired after his departure. The decision, as per CBS, was financially motivated amidst a challenging environment for late-night shows and was not linked to the show's ratings or content.
Despite the official stance, some, including Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), have speculated on the timing and reasons behind the cancellation, suggesting political motivations might be at play. Schiff's concern was amplified by his appearance on Colbert's show when the news broke.
Colbert's tenure at CBS began in 2015, following his departure from Comedy Central's 'The Colbert Report.' His tenure was marked by a distinct progressive stance, often targeting conservative figures and policies, with Trump being a frequent subject of critique. Despite maintaining a viewership lead, 'The Late Show' has not been immune to the overall decline in late-night ratings, a trend that has persisted across the industry.
The announcement of the show's end has sparked a range of reactions, from affirmations of Colbert's legacy to debates on the broader implications for media and politics. As the network prepares to bid farewell to an era, the conversation continues on what the future holds for late-night television and political commentary.
