In a surprising announcement that has reverberated across the entertainment world, CBS confirmed that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will come to an end in May 2026, concluding both Colbert’s 10-year tenure as host and marking the official closure of the iconic Late Show franchise on the network.
Stephen Colbert, who has helmed the program since 2015, shared the news with his live audience during a taping on July 17. “It’s not just the end of our show—it’s the end of The Late Show on CBS,” he said, receiving both applause and emotional reactions from the crowd.
CBS has made it clear that there are no plans to replace Colbert with a new host or continue the show under a different format. Instead, the network cited ongoing financial constraints as the primary reason for the program's closure. In a statement, executives emphasized that the decision was not reflective of the show’s performance or popularity. In fact, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has dominated late-night television ratings for nine consecutive seasons, often leading its competitors in both viewership and cultural relevance.
Colbert expressed deep gratitude toward his loyal team of nearly 200 staff members, many of whom have been with him since his days on The Colbert Report. He also thanked CBS for their continued support over the past decade, describing the network as “great partners from the very beginning.”
Since taking over from David Letterman in 2015, Colbert has brought a unique blend of wit, political insight, and humanity to late-night television. His version of The Late Show quickly gained momentum, especially during the Trump presidency, when his sharp satire and candid monologues often set the tone for the national conversation. From interviews with political figures and global leaders to memorable musical performances and heartfelt tributes, Colbert helped reshape the expectations of what late-night could be.
The announcement of the show’s end sparked an outpouring of reactions from fans and celebrities alike. Many expressed disappointment that one of the few remaining platforms for thoughtful, politically aware humor would be disappearing from network television. Others praised Colbert for his decade of leadership and integrity, calling his presence on screen “comforting, fearless, and necessary.”
Despite stepping away from The Late Show, Colbert’s relationship with CBS will continue. He is set to remain involved with the network in a creative capacity, including serving as executive producer on After Midnight, a new late-night game show hosted by comedian Taylor Tomlinson. The show, which blends comedy with internet culture and improvisation, is one of CBS’s next major late-night ventures.
As the final season approaches, the focus will undoubtedly turn to celebrating Colbert’s contributions—not just as a comedian or host, but as a cultural commentator during one of the most volatile political periods in recent U.S. history. From tackling disinformation and social injustice to delivering deeply personal reflections on tragedy and triumph, Colbert has solidified his legacy as more than just a late-night figure—he has become a voice of reason, empathy, and resilience.
Looking ahead to 2026, many are bracing for an emotional farewell to one of the most impactful shows of the modern era. While The Late Show may be ending, Stephen Colbert’s voice will continue to resonate across the media landscape for years to come.
