CBS Cancels Stephen Colbert Late Show Amid Trump, Merger Tensions

Stephen Colbert fiercely responded to President Donald Trump's public celebration of CBS's cancellation of "The Late Show," telling Trump to "go f**k yourself" during his July 21 monologue. Trump had posted that he was thrilled about Colbert's firing, disparaging his talent and ratings, and predicting Jimmy Kimmel would be next. Colbert rejected these claims, declaring himself the martyr of late-night TV and criticizing CBS and Paramount Global's $16 million settlement with Trump, which he called a "big fat bribe." The cancellation, officially attributed to financial reasons amid Paramount's merger with Skydance Media, drew skepticism as many believe political pressure from Trump influenced the decision. Colbert's final season will air through May 2026, and his July 21 show featured support from fellow late-night hosts and musicians who highlighted the cultural significance of the program. The controversy underscores tensions between political influence, corporate decisions, and the future of late-night television.