In a surprising announcement on the July 17 episode of The Late Show, Stephen Colbert, 61, revealed that CBS will be ending the iconic program in May of next year.
Before the show began, Colbert shared the news with a stunned audience:
“Before we start the show, I want to let you know something I found out just last night. Next year will be our last season — the network is ending The Late Show in May.”
As boos echoed through the studio, Colbert empathized with his fans’ disappointment. “I share your feelings. This isn’t just the end of our show — it’s the end of The Late Show on CBS. I’m not being replaced. This is just going away. That said, the folks at CBS have been wonderful partners, and I’m incredibly grateful to all of you — here in the studio, watching at home, and around the world — for being part of this journey every night.”
Later that day, CBS released a statement explaining the decision, citing financial reasons and assuring that the cancellation was unrelated to the show’s performance, content, or any internal matters at Paramount.
In the wake of the announcement, fellow late-night hosts like Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and others have come forward in strong support of Colbert, standing united in solidarity during this unexpected farewell.
Jimmy Kimmel
Jimmy Kimmel, 57, host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC, showed his support by sharing a clip of Colbert’s announcement on his Instagram Story — captioned simply, “Love you Stephen. F*** you and all your Sheldons, CBS.”
Andy Cohen
The Watch What Happens Live host shared with Deadline, “This is a sad day for late-night television — and for CBS. Stephen Colbert is a singular talent, and I’m confident he has an incredible next chapter ahead.”
He added, “I can’t believe CBS is turning off the lights at 11:30 after the local news. Honestly, I’m stunned. Colbert’s show is one of only three late-night programs worthy of an Emmy nomination. He consistently produces brilliant television.”
Jimmy Fallon
“I’m just as shocked as everyone else,” Fallon, 50, host of The Tonight Show, wrote on his Instagram Story. “Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do this. I truly thought we’d be riding this out together for years. It’s sad that my family and friends will need a new show to watch at 11:30. But honestly, Stephen has always been a gentleman and a true friend — going all the way back to The Colbert Report. I’m certain whatever he does next will be just as brilliant.”
Seth Meyers
Late Night host Seth Meyers didn’t hold back in backing his colleague.
“For as great a comedian and host as he is, Stephen Colbert is an even better person,” Meyers, 51, wrote on Instagram. “I’m going to miss seeing him on TV every night — but on the bright side, he can no longer use the excuse that he’s ‘too busy to hang out’ with me.”