The buzz surrounding late-night television is palpable, especially with the recent announcement that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will conclude in May 2026. Fans are grappling with a mix of disbelief and disappointment, given the show’s impressive ratings and legacy. The abrupt decision by CBS to cancel a beloved series that has thrived for so many years raises questions and surprises, especially since it has dominated the ratings landscape.
The Surprising Ratings Success of The Late Show
Recent statistics reveal a compelling truth about The Late Show with Stephen Colbert: it’s not just surviving; it’s thriving. As highlighted by LateNighter, Colbert’s show leads the late-night ratings, pulling in an average of 2.4 million viewers during the second quarter of 2025. This notable achievement places it far ahead of its competitors—The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon garnered only 1.2 million, while Jimmy Kimmel Live! attracted about 1.8 million viewers.
Even more impressive is the growth in viewer numbers, as Colbert’s show became the only late-night series to expand its audience compared to the previous quarter. While rivals saw declines, Colbert’s engaging content consistently attracted viewers, making the cancellation announcement feel particularly baffling.
Legacy and Speculation Behind the Cancellation
Following its inception in 1993 with David Letterman, the show’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The decision to end this iconic series raises eyebrows, especially as CBS cited financial issues as a reason—a claim that seems out of touch with the show’s success. According to reports, Colbert’s show is not only financially sound but also part of a revered legacy that spans 33 years.
As speculation swirls, some insiders suggest that political factors might have influenced CBS’s decision, although no concrete evidence supports this theory. With heightened interest and an ever-growing fanbase, the reasoning behind ending such a successful show remains elusive.
The whispers of change have ignited a mixture of nostalgia, irritation, and solidarity among fans and fellow late-night hosts. Jimmy Kimmel openly railed against CBS, expressing frustration at what many view as an unnecessary cancellation of a show that represents a significant piece of television history.
As the final season approaches, viewers will undoubtedly reflect on the impact The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has had on the late-night television landscape and its engagement with contemporary issues through humor. For now, fans must brace themselves for an emotional farewell to a program that has become a staple of late-night entertainment.