Stephen Colbert’s Late Show to End in May 2026

Stephen Colbert has announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will come to an end in May 2026. The surprising news was delivered during his Thursday night monologue at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, where the show has been filmed since its start.

Colbert told his live audience that he had just learned the news from CBS the night before. He clarified that he was not being replaced, but rather that the entire show would end. "It's not because I'm being replaced. It's just ending," Colbert said. "This is a fantastic job. I don't know who I'll be when I'm not doing this."

He also took a moment to thank the show's crew—around 200 people—whom he jokingly called his "usual gang of idiots." The crowd responded with disappointment, and Colbert admitted he felt the same. The announcement marks the end of a significant era in late-night television. Colbert took over The Late Show from David Letterman in 2015 and quickly became one of the top voices in political and cultural commentary.

Despite the show’s strong ratings and Colbert’s influence, CBS confirmed the show’s conclusion, stating that it was a difficult but necessary decision brought on by changes in the late-night television landscape.

 

 

 

 

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CBS Faces Scrutiny Over Timing and Financial Motives

CBS’s parent company, Paramount Global, has been undergoing major financial restructuring, which executives say played a central role in the cancellation. Paramount has been in the process of merging with Skydance Media, and recently faced criticism over a $16 million settlement with former President Donald Trump. The settlement came from a legal dispute involving a 60 Minutes interview conducted during Trump’s presidency.

Notably, just three days before the cancellation was announced, Colbert had publicly questioned the settlement during one of his broadcasts. He accused Paramount of paying what he called a “big fat bribe” to Trump, raising eyebrows both in the media and in political circles.

Following the cancellation, some political leaders suggested that Colbert’s on-air criticism may have played a role in the network’s decision. U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff voiced concern on social media, asking CBS to clarify the timing of the cancellation and whether it had anything to do with Colbert’s recent commentary.

Warren called the situation “deeply troubling,” while Schiff said the public deserves answers if there’s even a possibility that political pressure influenced CBS’s move. The timing, many critics argue, is too close to ignore.

CBS, however, strongly denied that the decision was politically motivated. In a statement, network officials praised Colbert’s work and described him as "irreplaceable." They admitted the decision was “agonizing” but insisted it was purely financial. The company cited growing costs in late-night production and a shift in how audiences consume content—particularly through streaming platforms.

Industry analysts have noted that late-night TV, once a ratings powerhouse, has faced increasing challenges as viewers move away from traditional broadcast formats. CBS reportedly considered multiple options, but ultimately chose to end The Late Show altogether, rather than revamp it or seek a new host.

CBS canceled Colbert’s show just THREE DAYS after Colbert called out CBS parent company Paramount for its $16M settlement with Trump – a deal that looks like bribery.

America deserves to know if his show was canceled for political reasons.

Watch and share his message. pic.twitter.com/Rz7HcWFLYM

— Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) July 18, 2025

What’s Next for Colbert—and CBS?

As for Stephen Colbert, he has yet to confirm any future projects beyond his current show. Known for his work in comedy, politics, and satire, many believe he will remain a strong voice in American media even after The Late Show wraps up.

For CBS, the network has not yet announced what will take the place of the program. Insiders say the network is exploring new formats for the late-night slot but has no confirmed plans at this time. There’s speculation that CBS may lean into more cost-effective or digital-friendly programming as the media industry continues to shift.

The end of The Late Show will mark the conclusion of a major chapter in television history. The original Late Show began in 1993 with David Letterman, and for over 30 years, it has been a central fixture in late-night entertainment. With Colbert’s version ending, CBS will officially retire the entire Late Show franchise.

While fans will surely miss Colbert’s sharp wit and nightly take on politics, culture, and world events, the host seemed determined to go out on his own terms. "I love this job," he told the audience, "and I will do everything I can to make this last season count."