Jimmy Kimmel recently expressed his support for Stephen Colbert after CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” set to end in May 2026. Kimmel shared his thoughts on Instagram, praising Colbert while taking a jab at CBS.
CBS cited financial reasons for the cancellation amid declining late-night viewership. They emphasized this decision had nothing to do with the show’s quality or other internal matters at Paramount. However, many commentators see a political influence behind it, especially given Colbert’s critiques of former President Trump.
The show’s end comes shortly after Paramount settled a lawsuit with Trump over a supposedly deceptive “60 Minutes” interview. Some believe this financial settlement could have influenced CBS’s decision, leading to questions about media self-censorship in the current political climate.
Colbert has long been known for his sharp take on Trump, and reactions to the cancellation have been swift. Senator Elizabeth Warren called attention to the timing, suggesting political motives. Andy Richter, known for his work with Conan O’Brien, expressed disappointment, saying Colbert and his team deserved better.
Bill Carter, a former New York Times media reporter, pointed out that CBS’s financial issues won’t shield them from scrutiny regarding their choice to end a show that had been critical of Trump. Comedy producer Mike Schur warned that such cancellations could signal a troubling trend in media, where critical voices are silenced under political pressure.
As audiences flock to digital platforms, late-night TV is facing new challenges. A study from the Pew Research Center notes that 62% of younger viewers prefer online content, a shift that puts traditional formats at risk. This landscape is further complicated by the financial pressures on networks.
In recent social media reactions, figures like Ben Stiller and Adam Schiff expressed sadness over the show’s end. Schiff remarked that if political reasons influenced this cancellation, the public deserves transparency.
In summary, the cancellation of “The Late Show” not only speaks to changing viewership patterns but also highlights a deeper conversation about the role of comedy in political discourse and the potential ramifications of media decisions in a polarized society.
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Jimmy Kimmel,Stephen Colbert,The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
