CBS to end ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ in 2026

In a surprising announcement, CBS has confirmed that "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" will conclude its run in May 2026, effectively retiring the long-running late-night franchise.

"'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' will end its historic run in May 2026 at the end of the broadcast season," CBS said in an official statement. 

"We consider Stephen Colbert irreplaceable and will retire 'The Late Show' franchise at that time. We are proud that Stephen called CBS home. He and the broadcast will be remembered in the pantheon of greats that graced late-night television."

The statement was jointly issued by George Cheeks, Co-CEO of Paramount Global and President and CEO of CBS; Amy Reisenbach, President of CBS Entertainment; and David Stapf, President of CBS Studios.

Colbert shared the news during the taping of the latest episode, stating, "I'm not being replaced, this is all just going away." He also expressed his gratitude to CBS for the opportunity to host the show.

CBS executives cited financial constraints as the reason behind the decision, noting that it was "purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night" and "is not related in any way to the show's performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount."

The announcement coincides with the expiration of Colbert's contract at the end of 2026. With Jon Stewart signed on to remain at The Daily Show on Comedy Central until the end of 2025, speculation has arisen regarding a potential reunion with the network's other flagship programme.

The news also follows Colbert's recent criticism of Paramount Global's $16 million settlement of a lawsuit filed by Donald Trump, which he described as a "big fat bribe." 

On the same episode, Colbert was joined by guest Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), who hinted at possible political motives behind the cancellation. Schiff later posted on X (formerly Twitter), "If Paramount and CBS ended The Late Show for political reasons, the public deserves to know. And deserves better."

"The Late Show" first premiered in August 1993 with David Letterman as host, following his departure from NBC. Colbert took over in September 2015 after Letterman's retirement, bringing his satirical voice from "The Colbert Report" and "The Daily Show".

The timing of the decision is notable, as Skydance Media is currently in the process of acquiring Paramount. While there is no confirmed link between Colbert's outspoken stance against Trump and the show's cancellation, the move reduces potential friction for Skydance leadership as they prepare to assume control. Earlier in the day, Jon Stewart also addressed growing concerns about the future of "The Daily Show" under new ownership.

The cancellation adds to the ongoing challenges faced by late-night programming. CBS had recently cancelled After Midnight, which had replaced "The Late Late Show" with James Corden, choosing not to continue with host Taylor Tomlinson.