In a highly anticipated and emotional moment, Stephen Colbert broke his silence following CBS’s announcement that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would be canceled after its upcoming season. For the first time since the news broke, Colbert addressed both his live studio audience and viewers at home during the July 17, 2025 broadcast, marking the beginning of the final chapter in a decade-long era on CBS.

CBS, in a statement confirming the cancellation, explained that the decision was driven purely by financial reasons, citing challenges within the late-night programming landscape and shifting viewer habits. “This is purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” said the network. “It is not related in any way to the show’s performance, content, or other matters happening at Paramount.” Despite the network’s stance, the news was met with mixed reactions, with fans, critics, and even fellow late-night hosts expressing disappointment over the end of Colbert’s tenure.

Colbert’s Poignant Farewell: Acknowledging the End of an Era

In his opening remarks, Colbert delivered the news to the audience with the characteristic blend of humor and sincerity that has made him one of the most beloved figures in late-night television. “Before we start the show, I want to let you know something I found out just last night,” Colbert said, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “Next year will be our last season. The network will be ending The Late Show in May.”

While Colbert’s usual wit and charm were on full display, the weight of his words wasn’t lost on the audience. The statement signified the end of an era, and Colbert made sure to acknowledge the significant impact the show and its viewers had on his career. He went on to say, “I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away. And I do want to say that the folks at CBS have been great partners. I’m so grateful to the Tiffany Network for giving me this chair and this beautiful theater to call home. And of course, I’m grateful to you, the audience, who have joined us every night.”

For many fans, this moment was bittersweet, recognizing that The Late Show had been a staple of late-night television, particularly after Colbert took over from David Letterman in 2015. His political satire, sharp wit, and ability to navigate the shifting media and political landscapes made him a favorite, earning him a loyal following for over a decade.

CBS’s Decision and the Changing Late-Night Landscape

The decision to cancel The Late Show comes amid broader shifts within the late-night television landscape. James Corden’s departure from The Late Late Show in 2023, followed by the relatively short-lived replacement of After Midnight with Taylor Tomlinson, exemplifies the challenges facing traditional late-night programming. While Colbert’s ratings were solid, CBS, like many traditional networks, is grappling with how to remain competitive in an era dominated by streaming services and digital content platforms.

The cancellation of Colbert’s show signals that CBS, a giant in the entertainment industry, is focusing its efforts elsewhere, prioritizing other forms of content that may better align with changing consumer habits. The network has made no secret of its desire to shift resources to streaming platforms, making Colbert’s cancellation part of a broader trend of reshaping late-night television to suit a more fragmented, digital-first audience.

Reactions From Fellow Late-Night Hosts

The news of Colbert’s cancellation quickly caught the attention of his late-night peers, with some offering public support. Jimmy Kimmel, a fellow late-night host and longtime friend of Colbert, was one of the first to speak out in his defense. Kimmel took to Instagram Stories to express his solidarity, writing: “Love you Stephen. F*** you and all your Sheldons, CBS.” The message, though comedic in nature, reflected the frustration many in the industry feel about the current state of late-night TV and the corporate pressures that are changing the landscape of entertainment.

The Final Show: What’s Next for Colbert?

The final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will air in May 2026, but until then, Colbert has promised to continue delivering the humor, satire, and political commentary that made the show a nightly must-watch. In the time leading up to the finale, it’s expected that Colbert will reflect on the 10-year journey he’s had on CBS, both in terms of his career and the political landscape that shaped so much of his content.

For Colbert’s millions of fans, this final year will likely be filled with nostalgia and a sense of finality as they bid farewell to one of the most influential late-night hosts in history. Whether Colbert will stay in television, transition to another network, or perhaps move into a different kind of media remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his departure from CBS marks the end of an era and the beginning of something entirely new.

Colbert’s Legacy and the Impact of The Late Show

Colbert’s legacy as the host of The Late Show is secure. He brought a fresh voice to late-night television, one that combined humor with incisive political commentary. During a time when American politics was undergoing dramatic shifts, Colbert provided a space where the nation could laugh, reflect, and critically engage with the news of the day. His ability to balance humor with serious issues like government corruption, political polarization, and social justice has made him a household name and one of the most respected figures in television.

Moreover, Colbert’s influence reached far beyond the TV screen. His show became a central platform for discussions about media, truth, and accountability. Through his interviews, monologues, and sketches, Colbert became not just a comedian but a key figure in political discourse. His ability to challenge those in power while still maintaining a sense of humor made him a voice that resonated with people across the political spectrum.

The Future of Late-Night Television

Colbert’s departure also raises questions about the future of late-night television. As networks continue to adapt to the rise of streaming services and on-demand content, traditional late-night shows are facing a tough road ahead. With younger audiences shifting their attention to digital platforms, the question of whether late-night TV can continue to thrive in its current form remains unanswered.

Colbert’s move away from CBS may signal the end of the traditional late-night format as we know it, paving the way for new forms of political commentary, satire, and entertainment that better align with how audiences consume content today. Whether Colbert finds a new platform or focuses on other ventures, the late-night landscape is sure to be forever changed by his decade-long reign.

Conclusion: A New Chapter

As Stephen Colbert bids farewell to The Late Show, his impact on late-night television and political satire cannot be overstated. He brought a unique perspective to a format that often struggled with relevance in the face of shifting media landscapes. His departure from CBS may mark the end of an era, but it also opens up new possibilities for Colbert’s future, one where he can continue to shape how Americans engage with politics, culture, and humor. Whatever comes next for Colbert, it’s clear that his influence will continue to shape the media landscape for years to come.