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The iconic late-night comedy talk show, a staple of American television since its original launch in 1993, will leave CBS without a late-night offering for the first time in over 30 years. The move, according to CBS, is “purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” and “is not related in any way to the show’s performance, content or other matters.”
The announcement comes just two weeks after CBS’s parent company, Paramount, settled a high-profile lawsuit brought by Donald Trump following a contentious 2024 election interview with Kamala Harris. Although CBS has stressed that the cancellation is unrelated to the settlement, some commentators have speculated about the timing.
Stephen Colbert, who has hosted The Late Show since 2015 after David Letterman’s retirement, broke the news to his live studio audience during Thursday evening’s taping, sparking a chorus of boos and disappointment from the crowd.
“I do want to say that the folks at CBS have been great partners,” Colbert told his audience, clearly emotional. “And of course, I’m grateful to you, the audience, who have joined us every night in here, out there, all around the world.”
The show, which blends political satire, celebrity interviews, and musical performances, has been one of the most-watched late-night programs in the United States under Colbert’s tenure. It regularly won its time slot and became particularly influential during the Trump administration, with Colbert’s sharp commentary attracting millions of viewers.
CBS has not announced what, if anything, will replace The Late Show in its long-held 11:35pm slot. Industry sources say the network may consider alternative formats or shift resources toward streaming platforms in light of declining traditional TV viewership.
Reactions online have been swift and emotional. Fans and celebrities alike have flooded social media to thank Colbert and his team for years of entertainment and thoughtful comedy. Hashtags like #ThankYouColbert and #TheLateShow began trending within hours of the announcement.
One viewer wrote: “Stephen Colbert made me laugh, cry, and think during some of the hardest years of my life. Thank you for everything. TV won’t be the same without you.”
With two more years left before the final curtain, Colbert assured fans he and his team will continue delivering their best every night: “We’ve still got plenty of time to have fun together,” he promised.
