Stephen Colbert Marks 10th Anniversary Amid Late Show Cancellation

Stephen Colbert marked the 10th anniversary of The Late Show with a mix of humor and sadness, acknowledging the show's cancellation in May 2026 amid a bittersweet milestone. During the anniversary episode, Colbert opened with a cold open featuring Julianne Moore as his wife, parodying the iconic "Newhart" finale by suggesting the decade-long run was just a dream, and took jabs at CBS' parent company Paramount for ending the series. Although CBS cited financial reasons for the cancellation, speculation arose that the decision was politically influenced following Paramount's settlement of a lawsuit with President Donald Trump and the subsequent FCC approval of a major merger. Despite the cancellation, The Late Show remained the highest-rated late-night program and even won its first Emmy Award in 2025, leading critics and fellow late-night hosts to question CBS' decision and call for the show's continuation. Colbert used his monologue to reflect on his tenure and the turbulent recent years, while maintaining gratitude toward his audience and CBS staff. The show's final episodes will air through May 2026, leaving open the possibility for CBS to reconsider the cancellation amid industry and fan backlash.