The unexpected cancellation of CBS’ ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ has ignited a wave of reactions from both the entertainment industry and political figures, raising questions about the motives behind this decision.
Shock and Discontent Over CBS’ Decision to End ‘The Late Show’
The worlds of politics and entertainment have reacted with shock and disgust over the surprise news that CBS’ The Late Show With Stephen Colbert will end its run in 2026.
Celebrity and Political Reactions
Prominent figures such as Jimmy Kimmel, Ben Stiller, John Cusack, Andy Richter, and Michael Ian Black, along with notable Democratic politicians like Elizabeth Warren, Pramila Jayapal, and Adam Schiff, have taken to social media to express their disapproval of the decision. Some have suggested that CBS’ move is linked to parent company Paramount Global’s merger with Skydance Media, which is currently seeking regulatory approval from the Trump administration. Colbert has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump on television, arguably contributing to his commanding lead in late-night ratings.
Support from Fellow Celebrities
On Instagram, under the video of Colbert’s monologue announcing the news, several celebrities commented. Former Late Show band leader Jon Batiste expressed his admiration, while filmmaker Judd Apatow shared his excitement for Colbert’s future projects. Actress Rachel Zegler and Severance star Adam Scott also voiced their sadness and frustration over the cancellation.
Jimmy Kimmel’s Condemnation
Jimmy Kimmel, host of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was forthright in his condemnation of the news. Kimmel, a longtime friend of Colbert, posted on Instagram, “Love you Stephen. Fuck you and all your Sheldons CBS.”
Political Implications
Senator Elizabeth Warren, who recently opened an investigation into whether Paramount Global engaged in bribery with Trump for the approval of the Skydance merger, questioned the motives behind the cancellation. “CBS canceled Colbert’s show just THREE DAYS after Colbert called out CBS parent company Paramount for its $16M settlement with Trump – a deal that looks like bribery,” Warren stated on X. “America deserves to know if his show was canceled for political reasons.”
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Industry Insights
Former New York Times media reporter Bill Carter commented on X, saying, “If CBS believes it can escape without serious questions about capitulating to Trump, they are seriously deluded.”
Read on for more reactions to the Late Show news.
