The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is set to air its final episode on May 21, marking the end of a 33-year television institution. The cancellation, announced last July, has sparked controversy due to its timing shortly after Colbert mocked a $16 million legal settlement between CBS's parent company Paramount and President Donald Trump. CBS claims the decision was financial, but critics, including former host David Letterman, have called it a lie.
A Star-Studded Farewell
In recent months, celebrities like Hugh Jackman, Bette Midler, John Lithgow, and Jimmy Fallon have paid tribute to Colbert. Fallon's parody of Frank Sinatra's My Way included pointed lyrics about Trump's role in the cancellation. Colbert, 62, has been a nightly antidote for viewers navigating Trump's political landscape, offering irreverence, empathy, and decency.
Colbert's Journey to Success
Colbert initially struggled after taking over from David Letterman in 2015. He found his footing with producer Chris Licht and the rise of Trump, who became a rich target for his satire. His monologues evolved into mini-state of the nation addresses, blending caustic wit with moral clarity. Colbert rejected claims of partisanship, stating his criticism of Trump was not political but based on the president's narcissism and disregard for the common good.
More Than a Comedian
Colbert's show offered more than jokes. His interviews, faith references, and segments with his wife Evie showcased his humanity. David Litt, a former Obama speechwriter, noted Colbert's unique ability to combine satire with kindness, exemplified by a poignant interview with Joe Biden about grief. Colbert's own childhood tragedy—losing his father and two brothers in a plane crash—shaped his emotional honesty.
The Controversial Cancellation
Despite high ratings and an Emmy award, Colbert's show was canceled after he called the Paramount-Trump settlement a "big fat bribe." Trump celebrated the cancellation on Truth Social, calling Colbert untalented. Critics see the move as a chilling effect of Trump's attacks on media, with CBS needing government approval for its merger. The show will be replaced by Comics Unleashed, a syndicated talk show.
What's Next for Colbert?
Colbert is already working on a Lord of the Rings film script. He has also joked about running for president, with Barack Obama humorously endorsing his potential. Bill Carter, author of The Late Shift, believes Colbert has many options, from cable to podcasting to Broadway. However, he notes that Colbert's true desire was to continue his late-night work, making the cancellation a loss for the industry.
As Farnsworth warns, the environment for late-night comedy is increasingly challenging, with conservative ownership and FCC weaponization. Colbert's departure leaves a void that may not be easily filled, but his legacy as a unique comedic and moral voice endures.
