Imagine sitting in New York’s famous Ed Sullivan Theatre, laughter still hanging in the air. Then, Stephen Colbert calmly drops a bombshell: “Next year will be our last.” That’s exactly what happened this Thursday, as CBS announced that “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” will end in May 2026. No new host. No more “Late Show” on CBS. And just like that, one of the most loving shows comes to an end.
The audience groaned with disbelief. As the audience booed, Stephen said, “Yeah, I share your feelings.”
“It’s not just the end of the show; it is the end of the Late Show on CBS. I’m not being replaced; this is all just going away,” Colbert said.
“It is a fantastic job. I wish somebody else was getting it,” he said, clearly moved. The room felt heavy with disbelief. For ten years, Colbert’s mix of heart, humour, and political wit has made this show a nightly ritual for many.
CBS says the decision is only about money. “This is purely a financial decision.” They insist it has nothing to do with ratings or politics.
What can be the other reason if not money?
Just a few days before the cancellation, Colbert spoke out against Paramount (CBS’s parent company) for paying Donald Trump $16 million to settle a lawsuit. Colbert called the deal a big fat bribe. Some people think Paramount wanted to avoid problems with Trump, especially because the company is trying to get government approval for a huge $8.4 billion business deal.
Now, The Late Show, the most-watched late-night program with over two million viewers, is ending. Many people do not believe CBS when it says this is only about money. The coincidental timing, right after Colbert criticised the Trump deal, makes people wonder if there is more going on.
Senator Elizabeth Warren quickly posted online, saying CBS cancelled Colbert just three days after he criticised the big deal with Trump. Senator Adam Schiff, who was in the audience, said if the reason was political, the public should know.
Hollywood stars also spoke up. Jimmy Kimmel sent Colbert a message of support. Jamie Lee Curtis said people will not be silenced and will speak out even more. Fans, upset and surprised, shared their feelings all over the internet.
Colbert stayed strong. On Monday, he told the camera, “As someone who’s always been a proud employee of this network, I am offended. I don’t know if anything will ever repair my trust in this company.” His mix of honesty, humour, and sadness has always made him special. He and his team promised to keep working hard for one last season.
Yes, the show is over. The laughs, the chat, and the memories are there to stay. Fans will continue to keep watching recaps, posting their favourite clips, and discussing what everything means. For many individuals, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert provided some light in dark moments. The entertainment, the cosiness, and the way it made viewers feel will not leave them ever, even after the show ends.
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