David Letterman Slams CBS for ‘Late Show’ Cancellation: A Bold Take on ‘Pure Cowardice’

Former *Late Show* host David Letterman recently shared his thoughts on CBS’s decision to cancel *The Late Show With Stephen Colbert*, and he’s not holding back. In a YouTube chat with his former executive producer, Barbara Gaines, he slammed the cancellation as “pure cowardice.” Letterman questioned CBS’s claim that the move was purely based on financial reasons, asserting that it’s not just about money.

“If they were really losing that kind of money, they could have acted weeks ago. Something doesn’t add up,” Letterman argued. He suggested that the deeper issue is the network trying to placate David Ellison, the upcoming CEO of Paramount, rather than being straightforward about the show’s performance. “This wasn’t just about economics,” he added. “They mishandled Stephen Colbert, who represents the face of the network.”

Letterman went on to discuss the implications of this cancellation for Colbert, referencing it as a chance for him to become a “martyr” in some way. “It’s sad, but maybe in the long run, this could work out for him,” he remarked. He also linked the *Late Show* decision to CBS’s recent settlement with Donald Trump over a lawsuit involving *60 Minutes*, indicating a pattern of the network choosing safer routes over bold storytelling.

What does this reaction reveal? In today’s media landscape, where late-night shows face fierce competition, decisions often boil down to money and ratings. A Pew Research report found that 31% of Americans follow late-night shows closely, highlighting their influence on public discourse. At the same time, shows like Colbert’s have historically served as platforms for political commentary, making this cancellation not just a business move but a cultural moment.

Letterman’s thoughts resonate with many viewers who feel that late-night comedy should remain bold and unfiltered. As social media trends show a growing demand for authentic voices, the cancellation might raise questions about what the future holds for late-night television. The conversation around creativity versus corporate interests is more relevant than ever.

In a closing jab, Letterman left the audience with a poignant thought: “One day, those making these decisions at CBS will feel embarrassed.” Whether they will heed this sentiment remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the landscape of late-night entertainment is at a critical juncture.

For more on this topic, a detailed overview of the changing late-night landscape can be found in a recent report by NPR.

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