The cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s iconic late-night show, ‘The Late Show,’ in 2026 has drawn widespread attention and polarization, exemplifying the show’s deep partisan roots. As CBS announced the decision, the response was sharply divided along political lines: while Donald Trump celebrated the end of a ‘political thug’s’ presence on television, Democratic figures and liberal media mourned the loss of a progressive voice. This sentiment reflects the show’s longstanding role as a platform for liberal commentary and its alignment with Democratic political narratives.
Since stepping into the late-night slot in 2015, Colbert’s show has remained a consistent vehicle for progressive perspectives. Known for his sharp critique of Donald Trump and his unrelenting support for the Democratic Party, Colbert has used his platform to amplify anti-right-wing sentiments and elevate Democratic politicians, notably during and after the 2020 presidential election. His celebration of Joe Biden’s victory, including a champagne-fueled ‘Ladies and gentlemen, Joe Biden did it!’ moment, exemplified this stance. The show’s coverage of key political events, from the Afghanistan withdrawal to the lab-leak theory debate, further demonstrates its liberal tilt.
One of the most controversial moments from Colbert’s tenure was his public critique of Paramount, the parent company of CBS, for settling with Donald Trump. In 2020, Colbert accused the media giant of offering Trump a ‘big fat bribe’ in exchange for the settlement, fueling accusations of corporate influence in political matters. Additionally, his 2021 dance with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer during a time of ongoing controversy over the Afghanistan withdrawal drew sharp backlash from critics who saw it as out of touch with the struggles of American citizens. These events highlight the show’s willingness to take a clear political stance, even if it risks alienating certain segments of the audience.
Despite its progressive leanings, Colbert’s show has not shied away from complex and occasionally humorous engagements with political issues. The lab-leak theory debate, for instance, saw Colbert humorously challenge Jon Stewart’s joking take on the origins of the coronavirus, suggesting it was a political stunt. These moments, though often lighthearted, underscore the show’s role in shaping public discourse and reinforcing liberal narratives. As the cancellation nears, the legacy of ‘The Late Show’ will certainly be remembered for its impact on political commentary and its alignment with Democratic ideals, leaving a mark on the late-night landscape that will be difficult to ignore.