CBS Cancels Late Show With Stephen Colbert After Decades

CBS has announced it will cancel The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and retire the entire Late Show franchise by May 2026, a decision that has shocked longtime bandleader Paul Shaffer, who worked with David Letterman for over three decades. Shaffer described the cancellation as "absolutely shocking" and speculated that it might signal the end of traditional late-night talk shows, with audiences increasingly turning to clips online. David Letterman criticized CBS, calling the move "pure cowardice," suggesting the cancellation was linked to Paramount Global's $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump over a lawsuit involving CBS' 60 Minutes. Meanwhile, Conan O'Brien acknowledged that while the format of late-night television is evolving, talents like Stephen Colbert will remain influential voices. CBS maintains the cancellation was a financial decision unrelated to the show's content or performance, despite speculation about political and corporate motivations. The announcement has sparked debate about the future of late-night television and the impact of shifting media consumption habits.