Stephen Colbert Announces Final Episode Date for The Late Show
Stephen Colbert has officially announced the date for the final episode of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, marking the end of an era for CBS's long-running late-night programme. The host revealed that the show will conclude on 21 May 2025, during a taping of NBC's Late Night With Seth Meyers, where he appeared as a guest. This announcement follows CBS's initial confirmation in July that the series would end in May, more than three decades after its debut in 1993 under original host David Letterman.
Colbert's Emotional Farewell and CBS's Financial Decision
In July, Colbert addressed his audience, stating, "It's not just the end of the show. It is the end of the Late Show on CBS. I'm not being replaced – this is all just going away." However, the exact date had remained undisclosed until now. CBS has described the cancellation as "purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night", emphasising that it was unrelated to the show's performance or content. This move comes amidst broader corporate changes at Paramount, CBS's parent company, including an $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media that required federal approval.
Controversy and Political Reactions to the Cancellation
The cancellation sparked significant controversy, particularly in light of a $16 million settlement between Paramount and Donald Trump over alleged deceptive editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. Colbert had criticised this settlement as a "big fat bribe" just days before the show's end was announced. Reactions from public figures have been polarised: Senator Bernie Sanders expressed anger on social media, suggesting a connection between Colbert's criticism and his dismissal, while Donald Trump celebrated the news on Truth Social. In recent months, Colbert has continued to satirise the Trump administration, reflecting on what he described as an exhausting year dominated by political headlines.
Legacy and Impact of The Late Show
Since taking over from David Letterman in 2015, Colbert has hosted the show for nearly a decade, maintaining its position as a top-rated late-night programme. The final episode on 21 May will close a chapter that began over 30 years ago, leaving a void in the US television landscape. Fans and industry observers have expressed sadness over the loss, highlighting Colbert's role as a key voice in contemporary media. As the show prepares to wrap up, its influence on comedy, politics, and broadcasting remains a testament to its enduring legacy.
