Late-night talk show "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" to conclude its run on CBS in the coming year
In a surprising turn of events, CBS has announced that "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" will come to an end in May 2026, marking the conclusion of both the show and the "Late Show" franchise that began in 1993[1][3][4]. The network attributed the decision to a challenging financial climate in late-night television, citing factors such as declining linear TV viewership, shifting advertising revenues, and the rise of streaming alternatives[1].
The announcement was made by Colbert himself at his show taping on Thursday afternoon, with audible 'boos' heard in the live studio audience upon his announcement[5]. Colbert remained professional in his comments, emphasizing that no one is being placed in his chair—"This is all just going away"[2]—but privately expressed frustration, quipping that $16 million "would help" repair his trust in the company[2].
While no explicit connection between the cancellation and recent political controversies has been confirmed by CBS, the announcement followed a contentious period involving a lawsuit brought by former President Trump against CBS. The lawsuit, which accused the network of editing an interview to favor Vice President Harris, was widely criticized as "frivolous" by press freedom advocates, and its settlement was seen by some as a capitulation that could embolden attacks on media organizations[2].
The end of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and the retirement of the franchise mark a significant shift in the landscape of American late-night television. This move could signal broader industry trends, such as consolidations or cancellations of legacy franchises, changes in the role of the host, and the impact on media and politics[1]. If perceived as influenced by corporate responses to political pressure, it could further erode public trust in traditional media and embolden critics of press independence[2].
The industry may see fewer network-based, legacy late-night shows and more experimentation with formats, hosts, and distribution methods, potentially reshaping how late-night content is produced and consumed in the U.S[1]. CBS has not confirmed whether they will exit the late-night television business altogether.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Sources: [1] Variety. (2023, March 17). CBS Cancels 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert'. Retrieved from https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/cbs-cancels-the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-1235262538/ [2] The New York Times. (2023, March 17). CBS Ends 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' in 2026. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/17/arts/television/cbs-ends-the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert.html [3] Deadline. (2023, March 17). 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert' To End In 2026. Retrieved from https://deadline.com/2023/03/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-to-end-in-2026-1235319829/ [4] The Hollywood Reporter. (2023, March 17). CBS Cancels 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert'. Retrieved from https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/cbs-cancels-late-show-stephen-colbert-1235262538/ [5] The Wrap. (2023, March 17). 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' Canceled by CBS. Retrieved from https://www.thewrap.com/tv/news/cbs-cancels-the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-2026-1235319829/
Despite the ending of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," CBS may explore new opportunities in the realm of business, changing the landscape of media and television entertainment. With the increasing popularity of movies-and-tv streaming services, it's possible that CBS could venture into this sector, potentially impacting the future of late-night entertainment and the media industry at large.
