Why CBS’s Decision to Oust Stephen Colbert Feels Like a Cruel Joke to Fans

Stephen Colbert’s journey on “The Late Show” has been a rollercoaster ride. When he took over from David Letterman in September 2015, Colbert softened his sharp wit to appeal to a broader audience, which didn’t resonate at first. For a while, ratings lagged behind those of NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

However, everything shifted with Donald Trump’s election in 2016. Colbert found his groove as a vocal critic of Trump, transforming “The Late Show” into a platform for biting political commentary. By May 2017, his show reclaimed the top spot in ratings, maintaining its lead for years.

Now, CBS has announced it will end “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” after the 2025-2026 season, a decision that many are questioning. Colbert himself remarked, “I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away,” highlighting his bewilderment at the news. CBS claims it’s a financial decision, despite the show consistently ranking as a top performer.

The landscape of late-night TV is rapidly evolving. Viewership for traditional broadcast shows is declining, with audiences increasingly turning to streaming platforms and social media for entertainment. A 2023 report from Vivvix noted that while Colbert’s show was the highest ad revenue generator among late-night programs, it still faced a steep 58% drop from its peak in 2016.

Social media has changed how comedians connect with their audiences. Viral videos and podcast appearances have taken the place of traditional late-night segments. Comedians like Seth Meyers and Jimmy Kimmel continue to deliver incisive commentary, often reflecting the political climate, but the model as a whole is under pressure.

Meanwhile, Colbert’s departure has sparked discussions online. Many viewers expressed shock and disappointment, with social media buzzing about his impact on the late-night genre. His humor has often helped articulate viewer frustrations, turning current events into relatable comedy.

This cancellation comes with a backdrop of financial deals and industry shifts. Recent news highlighted CBS’s connections with ownership and advertising concerns linked to the Trump-era political landscape. Observers speculate whether corporate decisions, rather than viewer engagement or show performance, motivated CBS’s choice.

As for Colbert, his future is uncertain, but his talent and experience likely mean he won’t be off-screen for long. He has remained an influential voice, and whether he moves to streaming or elsewhere, his knack for humor will surely find a new home. For now, he said, “It’s gonna be fun,” hinting that his comedic spirit remains unbroken, ready to take on new challenges ahead.



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