CBS to Conclude The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in May 2026
On July 17, 2025, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, a cornerstone of late-night television since its debut in 1993, will air its final episode in May 2026. The network attributed the decision to financial considerations, emphasizing that the move was not related to the show’s performance or its host, Stephen Colbert, who has led the program since 2015. The announcement has triggered a wave of reactions from fans, celebrities, and public figures, with some speculating about underlying political motivations.
Widespread Reactions from Celebrities and Fans
The news of The Late Show’s cancellation prompted an outpouring of support for Stephen Colbert and the show’s team. Actor Ben Stiller took to X on July 17, writing, “Sorry to hear @CBS is canceling one of the best shows they have. Wishing all the people who work so hard on that show all the best.” Similarly, comedian Andy Richter praised Colbert’s talent on Bluesky, stating that he is a “deeply talented man” who deserves better. On Instagram, actress Rachel Zegler commented under a post from the show’s official account, expressing her sadness: “I am extremely sad. I adore you, Stephen.” Other celebrities, including Jon Batiste, Judd Apatow, and Adam Scott, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the show’s cultural impact, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Speculation of Political Motives
The timing of the cancellation has fueled speculation, particularly because it comes shortly after a legal settlement between Paramount, CBS’s parent company, and President Donald Trump. The settlement stemmed from a 2024 CBS News 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris, which Trump claimed was edited to portray Harris more favorably. Stephen Colbert, a consistent critic of Trump, addressed the settlement in a recent monologue, calling it a “big fat bribe” and suggesting it was tied to Paramount’s efforts to secure federal approval for its merger with Skydance Media.
Public figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Adam Schiff raised concerns about potential political motivations behind the cancellation. Warren tweeted, “America deserves to know if his show was canceled for political reasons,” pointing to the proximity of the settlement and the show’s end. Schiff echoed this, stating on X that the public deserves transparency if the decision was politically driven. Sports writer Jemele Hill and actor John Cusack also suggested that Colbert’s outspoken criticism of Trump and the settlement might have influenced CBS’s decision. Cusack reshared Warren’s tweet and added his own, stating, “He’s not groveling enough to American fascism – Larry Ellison needs his tax cuts – doesn’t need comedians reminding people they are not cattle.”
Context of the Paramount-Trump Settlement
The settlement in question resolved a lawsuit filed by Trump against CBS over the Kamala Harris interview. CBS lawyers had previously dismissed the case as “without merit,” but Paramount chair Shari Redstone reportedly pushed for a settlement to facilitate the company’s merger with Skydance Media, according to Forbes. The timing—two weeks before the cancellation announcement—has led to questions about whether CBS faced external pressure to end The Late Show. CBS has yet to respond to these speculations, leaving room for ongoing debate.
The Legacy of The Late Show
Since its premiere in 1993, The Late Show has been a defining force in late-night television, known for its sharp humor, insightful interviews, and cultural commentary. Under Stephen Colbert’s stewardship, the show has maintained its reputation for incisive political satire and engaging content. The decision to end the program after more than three decades marks the close of an era, leaving fans and industry observers awaiting further developments as the final season approaches.