The CBS late-night talk show hosted by Stephen Colbert will end production in May 2024, following a successful tenure that began in 2015. The network cited financial pressures as the primary reason for the cancellation, despite Colbert’s show reaching the top spot in late-night ratings by 2017 and maintaining that position for eight consecutive years.
Colbert’s Journey in Late Night Television
When Stephen Colbert was announced as the successor to David Letterman in 2014, the decision garnered mixed reactions. Letterman had hosted “The Late Show” for 22 years, cultivating a loyal fan base. At that time, Colbert was primarily known for his satirical persona on “The Colbert Report” on Comedy Central. Critics questioned whether his brand of political humor would resonate with Letterman’s audience, particularly in a competitive late-night landscape that included established hosts like Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel.
In a 2015 interview with the New York Times, Colbert expressed his intention to focus solely on his own style, stating, “I can only do what I do.” After an initial adjustment period, he effectively transformed “The Late Show” into a platform for his unique blend of humor, candidness, and social commentary.
Reaction to the Show’s Cancellation
The announcement of the show’s cancellation came just two weeks after a legal settlement involving Donald Trump and CBS News, which has led to speculation regarding potential political motivations behind the decision. Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff, both Democratic Senators, took to social media to voice their concerns. Warren remarked, “CBS canceled Colbert’s show just THREE DAYS after Colbert called out CBS parent company Paramount for its $16 million settlement with Trump.” Schiff echoed her sentiments, implying that the public deserves clarity on whether the cancellation was politically motivated.
Colbert, known for his incisive critiques of Trump, has garnered a significant following through his ability to find humor in current events. His departure has shocked many, including fellow hosts in the industry. In an Instagram post, Jimmy Kimmel expressed his support, stating, “Love you, Stephen. F**K you and all your Sheldons, CBS.” The reference to “Sheldon” relates to a character from the popular CBS series “The Big Bang Theory.”
Another notable reaction came from Bravo’s Andy Cohen, who described the cancellation as “a sad day for late-night television.” He praised Colbert as a “singular talent,” expressing disbelief at CBS’s decision to conclude the show.
During the announcement made to his audience, Colbert shared his gratitude for the opportunity to host the show. The studio audience reacted with disapproval, booing the news. “I share your feelings,” Colbert responded, acknowledging the audience’s disappointment. He expressed appreciation for CBS and the team behind the show, thanking his staff of approximately 200 and the viewers who supported him throughout the ten seasons.
“It is a fantastic job,” Colbert remarked, adding, “I wish somebody else was getting it.” The end of “The Late Show” marks the conclusion of an era in late-night television, raising questions about the future of the genre as audiences continue to evolve.
