27 July, 2025
late-night-hosts-react-as-stephen-colbert-s-show-gets-canceled

The entertainment world is reacting to the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, a decision that has sparked discussions among fellow late-night hosts. The news, which emerged in early March 2024, has created a wave of responses from notable figures in comedy, highlighting both their admiration for Colbert and their concerns about the reasons behind the cancellation.

Late Night Hosts Share Their Thoughts

Following the announcement, Jon Stewart, a close friend and former colleague of Colbert, voiced his concerns during a monologue on The Daily Show. He criticized Paramount Global, the parent company of both CBS and Comedy Central, suggesting that corporate interests tied to a proposed $8 billion merger with Skydance may have influenced the decision. “Look, I understand the corporate fear,” Stewart stated, emphasizing that the shows the company seeks to control contributed significantly to its financial success. “If you believe, as corporations or as networks, you can make yourselves so innocuous… A) Why will anyone watch you?, and B) You’re wrong,” he concluded.

Jimmy Kimmel, currently on a two-month break from hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live!, also expressed his thoughts on social media. He posted a candid message on Instagram stating, “Love you Stephen. Fuck you and all your Sheldons, CBS.” This blunt statement highlighted the sentiment among peers regarding the abrupt cancellation.

In addition, Jimmy Fallon addressed the situation during his own show. He reflected on the impact of Colbert’s departure, noting, “I’m just as shocked as everyone. Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it.” Fallon shared his sadness about the loss of a late-night staple, adding that Colbert had been a true friend over the years. “I’m sure whatever he does next will be just as brilliant,” he stated, acknowledging Colbert’s significant contributions to comedy.

Seth Meyers, who recently returned from vacation, also took to Instagram to express his admiration for Colbert. “For as great a comedian and host he is, Stephen Colbert is an even better person,” he remarked, indicating that he would miss Colbert’s presence on television.

Reflections from Colbert’s Peers

John Oliver, known for his work on Last Week Tonight, shared his thoughts during a minor league baseball game. He expressed sadness over the cancellation, stating, “It’s very sad… but I’m partly excited to see what they’re gonna do for the next 10 months.” Oliver reminisced about the significance of late-night shows, highlighting their impact on comedy and culture.

Former The Late Show host David Letterman also weighed in, posting a video on his YouTube channel that featured clips of his own criticisms directed at CBS. His straightforward caption, “You can’t spell CBS without BS,” underscored the frustrations felt by many in the industry regarding the network’s decision-making.

The cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert comes as a shock to fans and colleagues alike, as it marks the end of an era for late-night television. As fellow hosts express their support for Colbert, the broader implications of this decision continue to reverberate throughout the entertainment landscape. The void left by Colbert’s departure will undoubtedly be felt as late-night television navigates its future in an ever-changing media environment.