In a dramatic turn of events, CBS has announced the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, sending shockwaves through the late-night television landscape. Colbert’s show, known for its sharp political commentary and signature satirical humor, will end in May 2026 after a successful run since 2015. The decision to cancel the show has left many in the entertainment world questioning the motives behind it, with political figures and fellow late-night hosts chiming in with their reactions.

Among those most vocal in their support for Colbert is Jimmy Kimmel Live! host Jimmy Kimmel. Known for his witty commentary and often biting satire, Kimmel did not hold back when he took to his Instagram Stories to express his shock and disappointment over the cancellation.

Jimmy Kimmel’s Fiery Response: “F–k You CBS”

Kimmel, who has been close friends with Colbert for years, took to social media with a scathing response to CBS’s decision. In his post, Kimmel wrote, “Love you Stephen,” before adding a sarcastic jab aimed at the network. “F–k you and all your Sheldons CBS,” Kimmel continued, referencing the corporate heads who made the final call on the show’s fate.

Kimmel’s reaction, blunt and unapologetic, mirrored the sentiments of many who felt that CBS’s decision was not only a mistake but also a disservice to Colbert’s legacy as one of the most influential voices in late-night television. The host went on to reminisce about his long-standing friendship with Colbert, particularly from their time together on The Colbert Report. He expressed his sadness that The Late Show would no longer be on air, noting, “I really thought I’d ride this out with him for years to come.”

Fallon, Meyers, and Others Join the Chorus of Support

Other late-night hosts quickly joined Kimmel and Fallon in expressing their shock and support for Colbert. Jimmy Fallon, whose own show The Tonight Show is a direct competitor to The Late Show, shared his dismay over the news. In a heartfelt post, Fallon wrote, “I’m just as shocked as everyone. Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it.” He added that he was “sad that my family and friends will need a new show to watch every night at 11:30,” before offering his best wishes to Colbert, noting that he was confident whatever Colbert did next would be “just as brilliant.”

Seth Meyers, who hosts Late Night with Seth Meyers on NBC, also shared his thoughts, echoing Fallon’s support for Colbert. Meyers called Colbert “a master at his craft” and expressed sadness over the end of the show. Meanwhile, Andy Cohen, the host of Watch What Happens Live on Bravo, also weighed in on the matter, remarking that it was a “sad day for late-night television” and praising Colbert for his singular talent.

Political Reactions: Is There a Hidden Agenda?

The news of Colbert’s cancellation has also stirred political reactions, with some speculating that there may be more to the decision than just financial concerns. Former President Donald Trump weighed in on the matter, justifying CBS’s decision and claiming that Colbert’s show had simply run its course. Trump, who has long been the target of Colbert’s biting humor, also made a sarcastic remark, suggesting that Kimmel would be the next late-night host to face the axe. “Kimmel is next,” Trump stated, dismissing both Colbert’s and Kimmel’s talents as talk show hosts.

Colbert and Kimmel’s outspoken criticisms of Trump have been well-documented, with both hosts using their platforms to provide sharp political commentary. This has led some to speculate that CBS, under pressure from corporate interests and political forces, may have decided to cancel The Late Show to distance itself from Colbert’s partisan brand of comedy. The timing of the cancellation, coming shortly after CBS’s parent company, Paramount, settled a lawsuit with Trump over a 60 Minutes interview, has only fueled these suspicions.

CBS’s Financial Motive and the Changing Landscape of Late-Night TV

CBS has officially stated that the cancellation of The Late Show is a “purely financial decision,” citing declining late-night ratings and the growing challenges faced by traditional broadcast networks in an era dominated by streaming services. The network has confirmed that the show will air its final episode in May 2026, with CBS choosing to retire the Late Show franchise altogether. This decision, while financial in nature, has raised eyebrows given the political context and Colbert’s role as one of the most vocal critics of Trump.

The reality is that late-night television has faced significant shifts in recent years. Streaming platforms have changed how audiences consume content, and younger generations are increasingly turning away from traditional TV programming in favor of on-demand services. In this changing landscape, traditional broadcast networks like CBS are struggling to maintain the same level of viewership they once had. The decision to cancel Colbert’s show, while still a leader in late-night ratings, reflects this broader trend of reevaluating the viability of the format in the current media environment.

A Defining Moment for Late-Night Television

The end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert represents more than just the cancellation of a popular program—it is a symbol of the changing nature of late-night television and the cultural divide in America. Colbert’s show was known for its political humor, and it quickly became a platform for progressive political discourse, particularly during the Trump administration. His departure signals that the late-night landscape may be moving toward less politically charged content, or perhaps shifting to platforms that are more attuned to the demands of modern audiences.

The public fallout from Colbert’s departure raises important questions: Is late-night television as we know it truly over? Will political commentary continue to thrive in this format, or will it be replaced by lighter entertainment-focused programs? As Colbert prepares to sign off, one thing is certain—the future of late-night TV is uncertain, and the industry will have to adapt to the changing times.

Conclusion: A Cultural Shift in Late-Night TV

The cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is a turning point in the history of late-night television. While CBS insists that financial reasons are the primary motivators behind the decision, the political implications cannot be ignored. The show’s cancellation raises questions about the intersection of politics, media, and corporate interests in shaping the content we see on television. As Colbert prepares for his final season, the late-night TV world braces for a new era that may look very different from the one we’ve come to know. Only time will tell if Colbert’s departure is the end of an era or the start of a new chapter in the late-night landscape.