On Thursday, CBS made the bold move to cancel “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” proving once again that nothing is more reliable than the fickle nature of corporate decisions.
This announcement conveniently followed Stephen Colbert’s impromptu roast of Paramount, CBS’s parent company, regarding a $16 million settlement with former President Trump. Talk about timing—one might think Colbert was practicing for his next career in stand-up comedy!
The Legacy of Late Night
“The Late Show” has graced our screens since 1993, when David Letterman first dazzled audiences with his charm. After Letterman rode off into the sunset in 2015, CBS handed Colbert the keys to the late-night kingdom, transitioning from “The Colbert Report” like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat—if the rabbit was out of a job.
CBS announced the cancellation was due to financial concerns, but honestly, who can keep track anymore? It seems every merger (this time with Skydance Media) requires the approval of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which must be easier to understand than a plot twist in a reality show.
Colbert’s Bold Take
Colbert didn’t shy away from the opportunity to opine. “While I was on vacation, my parent corporation Paramount paid Donald Trump a $16 million settlement over his 60 Minutes lawsuit,” he lamented, exhibiting more outrage than a cat discovering it’s been bathed. “As a proud employee, I’m offended. Although, if I had $16 million, I might reconsider.”
The Financial Circus
In the official CBS statement, the network dubbed their cancellation decision as “agonizing.” Ah yes, “agonizing” like deciding between pizza and tacos—both delicious, both risky in excess. CBS explained that “this is purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” which in layman’s terms means, “We need to save money; the ratings are great, but have you seen our balance sheets?”
As viewers bid adieu to “The Late Show,” questions arise about Jon Stewart’s fate. With Stewart having had a long-standing relationship with Comedy Central (which is also under Paramount), there’s speculation he might receive a similar fate. Either way, expect the popcorn to fly!
Public Sentiment
Former President Trump took to Truth Social to gloat about Colbert’s dismissal. “I absolutely love that Colbert got fired,” he quipped, displaying the heartfelt empathy of a true leader. One can only hope he doesn’t start handing out ‘Fire Me’ awards.
Colbert’s reaction during his last episode was nothing short of poignant. “The network will be ending The Late Show in May,” he announced to booing fans, which is almost as comforting as being told your trip to Paris was canceled due to a catastrophic airline meltdown. Colbert expressed gratitude for CBS, casting a nostalgic glance at the network like a kid saying goodbye to summer camp.
What Lies Ahead?
“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” will officially wrap up its final bow in May 2026. Meanwhile, the Paramount and Skydance merger circles like vultures above a corporate carcass, set to finalize in October.
So, folks, as we prepare for the show’s exit, let’s raise a glass to Colbert—whose wit has likely cost CBS more than a few gray hairs. Here’s hoping his next venture involves fewer corporate entanglements and more of that delightful satire audiences crave. Cheers!
