The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has been the feature of late-night television for a remarkable 33 feet. Next year, it will come to an official end. Stephen Colbert, host of the broadcast’s original network home CBS, announced the cancellation to his audience, even as controversy was mounting around CBS’s parent company, Paramount. Fans, celebrities, and political figures have taken to social media to condemn the show’s sudden cancellation. They are expressing their anger and frustration at this last-minute action.
Colbert officially made his announcement within weeks of Colbert tooting publicly for Paramount. He deemed their decision to settle a Trump lawsuit for $16 million a “frivolous” legal issue. This settlement is part of a larger narrative, as Paramount seeks approval for an $8.4 billion merger with Skydance, a company led by David Ellison, the son of a close Trump ally, Larry Ellison. Colbert has exhibited tremendous courage in addressing these issues every night on his show. He called the arrangement a “big fat bribe,” illustrating his concern about corporate control of the media.
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which got an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Talk Series earlier this week. In fact, it’s one of just three late-night shows ever to have received this esteemed honor. Surprisingly, despite winning this prestigious honor, CBS has decided to cancel the show. This decision has many wondering what the network’s true priorities are given its most recent moves.
A number of Colbert’s peers in the late-night arena have taken to expressing their displeasure over the cancellation of The Late Show. Adam Scott referred to the decision as “absolute bullshit,” while Jimmy Kimmel expressed solidarity with Colbert, saying, “Love you, Stephen. Fuck you and all your Sheldons, CBS.” Jon Batiste honored Colbert by calling him “the greatest to ever do it” on Instagram, showing that respect for his craft transcends competition.
In addition, public figures have jumped on the bandwagon, denouncing the moves. Actor John Cusack posted a clip of Colbert on social media, lamenting the cancellation and highlighting the political implications involved. Senator Bernie Sanders weighed in, stating that CBS’s billionaire owners settled with Trump while attempting to negotiate a merger with Skydance, underscoring the conflict between corporate interests and creative expression.
Fans have since flooded social media to share their grief and shock. Author Stephen King tweeted, “Colbert canceled? Please tell me it’s a joke.” Meanwhile, Rachel Zegler shared her sorrow with a heartfelt message: “I am extremely sad. I adore you, Stephen.” These sentiments capture the emotional impact Colbert has had not only on his audience but on his colleagues and friends within the industry.
In a recent interview, Colbert spoke about his experience on The Late Show. He continued with palpable excitement, “Believe me, it is a terrific job.” His hapless persona, fun-loving attitude and acerbic sarcasm have propelled him to become one of the most beloved late-night television personalities around. Once he leaves, his absence will leave a hole that will be equally difficult to fill.
Stephen Colbert’s legacy will continue to have an effect on those fans who appreciate his unique blend of comedy and commentary.