Stephen Colbert has announced the cancellation of his long-running program, The Late Show, which he has hosted from the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City since 2015. The decision comes amid controversy surrounding CBS and its parent company, Paramount, following a significant $16 million settlement connected to former President Donald Trump. On July 17, 2025, Colbert informed his audience, “It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of The Late Show on CBS,” expressing his gratitude to the network while lamenting the loss.
The comedian’s statement revealed his deep appreciation for the show’s team of approximately 200 staff members. Colbert noted, “I wish somebody else could fill my seat and continue the show.” His remarks highlight both his emotional connection to the program and his recognition of the hard work that has gone into its production over the years.
Colbert’s Financial Standing
As of August 2025, Stephen Colbert’s net worth stands at an impressive $75 million, according to data from Celebrity Net Worth. His compensation as the host of The Late Show is reported to be $15 million annually, showcasing his status as one of the highest-paid figures in late-night television.
The cancellation of The Late Show has sparked debates among fans and critics alike, particularly regarding CBS’s justification for ending a program that has consistently ranked as the number one show in late-night comedy for nine consecutive seasons. CBS executives described the decision as a “financial choice against a challenging backdrop in late night,” emphasizing that it was “not related in any way to the show’s performance, content, or other matters happening at Paramount.”
In an official statement, CBS expressed its admiration for Colbert and his team, stating, “Our admiration, affection, and respect for the talents of Stephen Colbert and his incredible team made this agonizing decision even more difficult.” The network also emphasized its intention to honor Colbert and celebrate The Late Show over the remaining months leading up to its finale.
Looking Ahead
Colbert has expressed his commitment to continue delivering engaging content over the next ten months before the show concludes. Reflecting on his time in front of the camera, he said, “I’ve had the pleasure and the responsibility of sharing what we do every day with you in front of this camera for the last 10 years. It is a fantastic job.” His enthusiasm for the role remains evident, as he looks forward to making the most of the time left on The Late Show.
As the cancellation date approaches, fans remain uncertain about the future of late-night television without Colbert’s unique voice. The decision has raised questions about the direction of CBS and its programming choices, particularly in a landscape where late-night comedy continues to evolve. Colbert’s departure marks a significant shift in the genre, leaving a lasting impact on both the network and its audience.
