CBS will end Stephen Colbert’s Late Show in May 2026.

CBS to Conclude “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” in May 2026

In a significant development in late-night television, CBS has announced the cancellation of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” which is set to end in May 2026. This decision was revealed by Colbert himself during a recent taping, where he made clear that next year will mark the show’s final season on the network.

The announcement comes on the heels of controversy surrounding CBS’s reported settlement with former President Donald Trump related to a story aired on “60 Minutes.” Colbert had publicly expressed his discontent with the matter, suggesting that it damaged his trust in the network. During a monologue earlier this week, he articulated his feelings of offense over the settlement, humorously proposing a monetary figure that might help mend his relationship with CBS.

While the network has not provided extensive commentary on the reasons behind the show’s conclusion, it released a press statement confirming the news alongside a clip of Colbert discussing the cancellation. In front of a live audience, Colbert conveyed that he would not be replaced, emphasizing that the decision was a definitive end for “The Late Show” on CBS.

Despite the impending closure, Colbert’s show has continued to perform well in terms of viewership, according to recent Nielsen ratings. The program secured an average of approximately 2.417 million viewers across 41 new episodes, positioning it as a leader in its time slot. Notably, it is the only late-night show to have gained viewers during the current year, a testament to its enduring popularity and relevance.

As CBS prepares for the show’s end, the decision marks a notable shift in the late-night landscape, a space that has seen significant evolution over the past few years. Colbert, an influential figure in political commentary and satire, has been known for tackling pressing societal issues, and the cancellation raises questions about the future direction of late-night programming and how networks engage with contentious topics.

For fans and followers of Colbert, the end of “The Late Show” signals not only the closure of a significant chapter in late-night entertainment but also the potential for new directions and innovations in the genre as the television landscape continues to change. The coming year will likely see an increased focus on the show’s legacy as it approaches its final curtain call.

This development marks a pivotal moment for both Colbert and CBS, as the network navigates its identity in the evolving realm of television entertainment.

(Media News Source)