Colbert's 'Late Show' to End Amid Controversy

CBS announced it will end 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' in May 2026, citing financial pressures from declining ad revenues and viewership across late-night television. The decision followed Colbert's public criticism of CBS parent Paramount's $16 million lawsuit settlement with President Trump, which he described as a 'big fat bribe' amid Paramount's pursuit of Trump administration approval for a major merger. The timing has prompted speculation and calls for transparency from Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff, regarding potential political motivations. CBS and Paramount insist the cancellation is unrelated to Colbert's content or political commentary and was based solely on financial considerations. President Trump publicly celebrated the show's cancellation, disparaging Colbert and suggesting other liberal hosts may be next. The episode underscores concerns over the future of late-night TV and the impact of politics on media business decisions.