Stephen Colbert, the renowned host of CBS's The Late Show, is facing mounting criticism as audiences grow increasingly divided over his brand of political satire. Critics argue that his 'woke' commentary has alienated a significant portion of his viewership, sparking rumours that the show may be at risk of cancellation.
Once a dominant force in late-night television, Colbert's ratings have reportedly declined in recent years, with some attributing the drop to his overtly progressive stance on hot-button issues. While his loyal fanbase applauds his unapologetic approach, others claim the show has become too polarising.
Is 'Woke' Humour Costing Colbert His Audience?
Industry insiders suggest that late-night hosts who lean heavily into political humour risk losing viewers who crave lighter entertainment. Colbert, who rose to fame with his sharp political wit on The Colbert Report, has doubled down on his progressive commentary since taking over The Late Show in 2015.
However, as the cultural landscape shifts, some argue that his once-cutting-edge satire now feels predictable—or worse, preachy. 'There's a fine line between being clever and being condescending,' one media analyst noted. 'Viewers are tuning out when they feel lectured rather than entertained.'
Could CBS Pull the Plug?
While CBS has not commented on the speculation, the network has historically prioritised ratings and advertiser appeal. If The Late Show continues to shed viewers, executives may be forced to reconsider its future—especially as competitors like Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel maintain broader appeal.
For now, Colbert remains a formidable presence in late-night TV, but the question lingers: can he adapt to an audience increasingly fatigued by partisan humour?
