Stephen Colbert Announces Final Night Hosting ‘The Late Show’

Stephen Colbert has confirmed the conclusion of “The Late Show” on Thursday, May 21, marking the end of a significant era in late-night television. This date was revealed during a taping of NBC’s “Late Night With Seth Meyers,” scheduled to air on Tuesday, January 27. The show, a CBS staple for over three decades, faced cancellation due to financial concerns highlighted by CBS last July.

History of “The Late Show”

Launched in 1993, “The Late Show” became a cultural icon, especially under the stewardship of David Letterman, who hosted for 22 years. Stephen Colbert took over the reins in 2015, continuing the show’s legacy. However, CBS announced that the show would wrap up after the 2025-26 broadcast season.

Reason for Cancellation

CBS has clarified that the decision to cancel “The Late Show” is rooted in financial challenges, not the show’s content. The network emphasized that the cancellation has no connection to the ongoing merger between Paramount, CBS’s parent company, and Skydance. These decisions come during a time when late-night programming struggles to compete with streaming services that attract younger viewers.

Colbert’s Reaction

Upon learning about the cancellation, Colbert addressed his studio audience, underscoring the definitive nature of CBS’s choice. “It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of ‘The Late Show’ on CBS,” he stated, emphasizing that he would not be replaced.

Recent Achievements

Despite the impending closure, Colbert has continued to engage audiences with his sharp political commentary. The show won the Emmy for Best Talk Series in September. Furthermore, he is set to receive the Walter Bernstein Award from the Writers Guild of America East next month.

Conclusion

The cancellation of “The Late Show” reflects broader trends in the entertainment industry, where shifting viewer habits significantly impact traditional broadcasting. As CBS prepares for this transition, Colbert’s contributions to the show’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered.