Stephen Colbert is set to sign off from his final Late Show broadcast on CBS Thursday night, concluding an 11-year run as host of the late-night franchise that has aired for 33 years. The cancellation of the Emmy-winning comedian’s show was announced last July and came days after Colbert criticized Paramount, the network’s parent company, over a $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump.
Final Episode and Reactions
Colbert’s final episode has been billed as an “extended” send-off beyond the show’s typical one-hour time slot. Trump said he would “have a message at a later date” when asked for his thoughts on the end of Colbert’s show. The White House issued a statement to The Independent calling Colbert “a pathetic trainwreck with no talent and terrible ratings, which is exactly why CBS canceled his show and is booting him off the airwaves.”
Allies of the comedian have rallied around the star, with Jimmy Kimmel urging viewers to “never watch CBS again.” Bruce Springsteen made a dig at Trump during his appearance on the show earlier this week.
Colbert’s Legacy and Next Move
Colbert has hosted the show since September 2015, taking over from David Letterman, who originated the franchise in 1993. After departing late-night television, Colbert’s next role will see him write a new Lord of the Rings film.
The legal dispute that preceded the cancellation involved Trump’s team accusing 60 Minutes of deceptively editing a 2024 interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Paramount settled the case for $16 million, a move Colbert publicly criticized.
As Colbert signs off, fans and critics alike reflect on his tenure, which included sharp political commentary and memorable celebrity interviews. The finale airs tonight on CBS.
