CBS staffers are questioning the timing and motives behind the network’s decision to cancel ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ in May 2026, suggesting it may be a politically motivated move rather than a purely financial decision. Insiders expressed concerns that the cancellation sends a message about free speech, especially given Colbert’s recent criticism of Paramount Global for settling Trump’s lawsuit.
Just days before the announced cancellation, Colbert took aim at his corporate bosses at parent company Paramount Global for settling President Donald Trump’s lawsuit. Colbert jokingly referred to the settlement as a ‘big fat bribe’ in a monologue, suggesting that the decision was influenced by the company’s desire to secure regulatory approval for a major merger. This critique came at a time when the network was facing pressure to navigate the complexities of the ongoing Trump administration’s legal issues.
The timing of the cancellation has raised eyebrows among insiders, with one CBS staffer noting that the decision seems ‘weird’ given the broader context of the company’s financial challenges and merger activities. While CBS cited financial difficulties as the primary reason for the cancellation, insiders are skeptical and speculate that the political implications of Colbert’s comments may have played a significant role. This speculation is underscored by the fact that the cancellation was announced shortly after Colbert’s remarks, raising questions about the network’s commitment to free speech.
Additionally, reports suggest that the program has been losing millions of dollars annually for CBS, further complicating the financial rationale for its cancellation. Despite these challenges, the decision to end the show without significant cost-cutting measures has led to speculation about the underlying motives, with critics arguing that the financial justification may not be the sole factor driving the decision.
Paramount Global, the parent company of CBS, has not yet provided an official statement addressing the criticisms or confirming the financial rationale behind the cancellation. As the company moves forward with its planned merger, the decision to end Colbert’s show will likely remain a topic of debate and analysis regarding media ownership, free speech, and the intersection of politics and business in the entertainment industry.