CBS Ends Colbert's Late Show Citing Financial Struggles Amid Political Claims

CBS announced that "The Late Show" will end in May 2026, citing purely financial reasons despite the program's top ratings under Stephen Colbert. The decision has sparked a political backlash, with some critics and CBS insiders suspecting retaliation due to Colbert's recent on-air criticism of Paramount's $16 million settlement with Donald Trump, which Colbert called a "bribe." Prominent figures including Elizabeth Warren and Jimmy Kimmel condemned the cancellation as politically motivated, while CBS executives maintain it is a financial necessity amid the challenging late-night landscape. Colbert's show, although highly rated, reportedly caused substantial financial losses for CBS, costing about $100 million annually with $40 million in losses, raising questions about its sustainability. Some observers see the cancellation as part of larger tensions involving CBS's business interests and its relationship with the Trump administration, especially as Paramount seeks approval for a merger with Skydance Media. The controversy highlights the complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and corporate strategy in modern media.