So, why is The Late Show with Stephen Colbert ending? The news broke back in July 2025 that the show would be wrapping up in May 2026. CBS explained that the decision was made due to financial pressures in late-night television. However, with Paramount seeking government approval for its merger with Skydance Media around the same time, some people wondered if politics played a role. The network denied this.
CBS released a statement in 2025, clarifying the decision to end The Late Show. The network stated that the show would end its run in May 2026 and that Stephen Colbert is irreplaceable. They made it clear that this was a financial decision and not related to the show’s performance or content. Colbert and his team have been a huge part of CBS late night, bringing cutting-edge comedy and must-watch interviews.
Stephen Colbert himself addressed the rumors that the decision was politically motivated. The show has been a huge success, ranking #1 in late night for nine straight seasons. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has been a staple of the nation’s culture, and its accomplishments will be remembered.