The Shock of Stephen Colbert’s “The Late Show” Cancellation: Reactions from Late-Night Hosts

The entertainment world was recently rocked when Stephen Colbert announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would be coming to an end. The cancellation, confirmed by CBS, shocked fans and fellow late-night hosts alike, sending ripples across the television industry. While the show’s finale won’t air until next year, Colbert’s heartfelt announcement left many in disbelief. As the news spread, late-night hosts from other networks have publicly supported Colbert, some sharing their own sentiments about the cancellation while others expressed anger and frustration over the decision. The following reactions highlight the emotional response from his colleagues in the industry and shed light on the larger context surrounding the cancellation.

Stephen Colbert’s Announcement: A Sad Goodbye to Late-Night Television

On the evening of July 17, 2025, during a taped episode of The Late Show, Stephen Colbert broke the news to his audience that the show would be canceled in May 2026. With characteristic grace, he informed viewers, “Before we start the show, I want to let you know something that I found out just last night. Next year will be our last season. The network will be ending The Late Show in May.” The announcement was met with a chorus of boos from the audience, a testament to the impact Colbert’s show has had over the years. Despite the shock, Colbert remained composed, explaining that the decision was financial and in no way related to the show’s content or performance. He thanked CBS for being a supportive partner throughout the years and expressed his gratitude to the audience, who had supported the show from its inception.

Late-Night Hosts Express Support: Jimmy Kimmel Leads the Way

The cancellation of The Late Show sent shockwaves through the late-night community, and many of Colbert’s peers took to social media to offer their support. Jimmy Kimmel, host of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was one of the first to voice his reaction, reposting Colbert’s announcement clip on his Instagram Story with a heartfelt message, “Love you, Stephen. F*** you and all your Sheldons, CBS.” This statement, filled with both affection and frustration, encapsulated the sentiment of many in the industry who felt that the cancellation was a grave mistake.

Kimmel, known for his dry humor and candidness, demonstrated his loyalty to Colbert in a way that resonated with both his followers and the late-night community. His Instagram post became an emblem of solidarity, not just between fellow hosts, but between artists who felt that the decision was a blow to late-night television as a whole.

Andy Cohen’s Emotional Response: A Loss for Late-Night Television

Andy Cohen, the host of Watch What Happens Live, also took the time to express his shock and sadness over the cancellation. Speaking to Deadline, Cohen shared his belief that it was a “sad day for late-night television” and also lamented the decision as a poor one for CBS. “Stephen Colbert is a singular talent,” Cohen said. “He’s going to have an incredible next chapter.” He also pointed out how CBS’s decision to cancel such a high-profile show was an unexpected and unwelcome shift in the late-night landscape.

In his discussion on SiriusXM’s Andy Cohen Live, Cohen highlighted the financial situation, stating that the network’s decision to pull the plug on The Late Show likely stemmed from the show losing an estimated $40 million annually. Yet, he speculated that CBS’s move to cancel the show might not be as clear-cut as financial reasons alone. Cohen went further, stating, “It seems like CBS is just cooked. They are saying, ‘We are done.’”

Jimmy Fallon’s Reaction: A Personal Loss to Late-Night Television

For Jimmy Fallon, host of The Tonight Show, Colbert’s cancellation hit close to home. Fallon shared his personal thoughts on Instagram, saying, “I’m just as shocked as everyone. Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it. I really thought I’d ride this out with him for years to come.” His message encapsulated not only his personal respect for Colbert but also the sense of camaraderie and collective loss felt by the late-night community. Fallon, who has long been Colbert’s colleague and friend, expressed his belief that Colbert would continue to find success in whatever project he pursued next.

Fallon’s tribute to Colbert also highlighted the strength of their friendship, which dates back to their early careers in comedy. “Honestly, he’s really been a gentleman and a true friend over the years,” Fallon continued. His statement emphasized that the late-night community, despite the fierce competition, shared a deep mutual respect and understanding for one another’s work.

Seth Meyers and John Oliver Stand by Colbert: Show of Solidarity

Seth Meyers, the host of Late Night with Seth Meyers, expressed his support for Colbert in an Instagram post, writing, “For as great a comedian and host he is, Stephen Colbert is an even better person. I’m going to miss having him on TV every night.” Meyers’ tribute was heartfelt and personal, noting that while he would miss Colbert’s nightly presence on television, he looked forward to spending more time with his friend outside of the spotlight. The sentiment that Colbert was not just a professional peer but also a friend was echoed by many late-night hosts who have formed lasting relationships over the years.

John Oliver, the host of Last Week Tonight, also shared his thoughts, saying that the cancellation of The Late Show was “terrible news for the world of comedy.” While Oliver was saddened by the end of Colbert’s show, he expressed his admiration for Colbert’s legacy, stating that Colbert would continue to thrive in whatever endeavors came next. Oliver also reflected on how The Late Show played a crucial role in shaping the late-night television landscape, calling it “incredibly sad” to see it come to an end.

Jon Stewart’s Blistering Take: A Critique of CBS and Paramount

Jon Stewart, a longtime friend and mentor to Colbert, didn’t hold back in his criticism of CBS for canceling The Late Show. In a monologue on The Daily Show, Stewart questioned whether the cancellation was truly driven by financial reasons, as CBS had claimed, or whether there was a deeper political motive at play. Stewart suggested that CBS’s decision might be linked to the network’s growing concerns over political pressure, especially in light of its parent company, Paramount’s merger with Skydance Media.

Stewart was blunt in his criticism, stating, “The shows that you now seek to cancel, censor, and control… a not insignificant portion of that $8 billion value came from those f**king shows. That’s what made you that money. Shows that say something. Shows that take a stand.” His fiery words reflected the sense of outrage many felt about the implications of the cancellation—not just as a financial decision, but as a sign of the broader cultural and political shifts taking place in the media industry.

Conclusion: A Tough Farewell to The Late Show and Stephen Colbert

As Colbert’s show nears its end, the outpouring of support from late-night hosts underscores the tremendous impact he has had on the television landscape. Despite CBS’s decision, Colbert’s legacy will endure, and the late-night community is united in their belief that he will continue to thrive. The cancellation of The Late Show is not just the end of a beloved program—it marks the end of an era in late-night television. While the future of the time slot remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Stephen Colbert’s contribution to late-night television will not be easily forgotten.