Late Show host steps all out after canceling, slings Trump

The End of “The Late Show” – A Controversial Chapter

Background & Cancellation

The long‑running CBS late‑night franchise, launched in 1993 under David Letterman, will close in May 2026 after CBS announced the decision last week. Key factor: the network, part of Paramount, is under scrutiny in an 8 billion‑dollar takeover that must pass the Trump‑controlled FCC.

Colbert’s First Response

Stephen Colbert tackled the cancellation head‑on on his debut broadcast after the cancellation swirled with political fire. He scolded the network and vowed “the gloves are off.” Colbert bellowed a bold restraint: “go fuck yourself,” an unflinching jab aimed at former President Donald Trump, whose whisper of business favors has drawn criticism.

Financial & Legal Context

• Colbert alleged CBS paid a “big fat bribe” of $16 million to Trump for “deceptive” edits of an interview with 2024 election opponent, former Vice President Kamala Harris.
• Trump celebrated the firing on Truth Social, declaring, “I absolutely love that Colbert was fired.”
• Spotlight on a leaked figure: CBS reported his show lost $40 million last year, a claim Colbert contested, posting “$24 million annually – but not the $16 million,” referencing CBS News’ settlement with Trump.

Segment on Trump & the Washington Commanders

Colbert opened Monday’s edition with a razor‑sharp riff on Trump demanding the Washington Commanders revert to a slur‑frequent name. He suggested a renaming to “Washington Epsteins,” referencing a financier alleged close to Trump. The segment drifted into a deep dive on the Trump‑Epstein link, a formula familiar to guests: serious tone with humor & wit.

Audience Reactions & Guest Tributes

• Protesters outside the Ed Sullivan Theater carried signs: “Colbert Stays! Trump Must Go!”
• High school teacher Elizabeth Kott lamented, “It’s truly awful that companies feel pressured to comply in advance.”
• Actress Sandra Oh described the network as “a plague on CBS and Paramount,” praising Colbert’s comedic truth‑talk.
• Actor Dave Franco recalled Colbert’s journey from The Daily Show to The Late Show, noting his evolution from a caricature to a trusted comedic voice.

Final Words

After revealing his nerves, Colbert vowed he would “miss you.” The cancellation marks a pivotal moment for U.S. late‑night television and the contentious relationship between media giants, politics, and public perception.