Late-Night Hosts React to Colbert’s Show Ending \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Stephen Colbert’s upcoming exit from The Late Show in May 2026 shocked fellow late-night hosts. Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, John Oliver, and others shared messages of admiration and support. President Trump, a frequent Colbert target, celebrated the cancellation.
Quick Looks
- CBS announced The Late Show with Stephen Colbert ends in May 2026.
- Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers praised Colbert’s talent and character.
- John Oliver called it “terrible news” but looked forward to the final season.
- Jimmy Kimmel and Andy Cohen criticized CBS for stepping out of late-night TV.
- Donald Trump mocked Colbert’s cancellation on Truth Social.
- Colbert’s peers expressed sadness and respect across social media and interviews.
- Colbert has not publicly shared post-show plans yet.
- The show’s final 10 months are expected to be eventful and reflective.
Deep Look
CBS’s surprise announcement that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will be canceled next May has triggered a wave of reactions—from heartfelt messages by fellow late-night hosts to public celebration from current U.S. President Donald Trump. The network’s decision to end Colbert’s nearly decade-long tenure marks a seismic moment in late-night television, politics, and the cultural landscape.
Trump, who returned to the presidency in January 2025, wasted no time in expressing his glee. Taking to Truth Social, he wrote:
“I absolutely love that Colbert was fired. One of the most overrated and nasty people on TV—GOOD RIDDANCE! The ratings told the truth. America is finally waking up.”
Colbert, known for his pointed satire and political monologues, has spent much of his Late Show run targeting Trump’s policies, behavior, and scandals. With Trump now back in the White House, the timing of the cancellation—just months into Trump’s second term—has sparked speculation among fans and critics alike about whether political pressure played a role. CBS has not commented on that angle.
Colbert’s Peers Offer Support and Respect
While Trump celebrated, the mood across the entertainment industry—particularly in the late-night television world—was one of sadness and admiration. Prominent hosts including Jimmy Fallon, John Oliver, Seth Meyers, and Jimmy Kimmel took to social media and interviews to express support for Colbert.
John Oliver, host of HBO’s Last Week Tonight, gave one of the most emotional responses while speaking at an event in Erie, Pennsylvania.
“It’s incredibly sad. I love Stephen, I love his staff. I love that show. Late-night comedy shaped my view of the world, and The Late Show has been one of the smartest and most meaningful parts of it. It’s terrible, terrible news. But I can’t wait to see what Stephen does next—he’s unstoppable.”
Jimmy Fallon, host of NBC’s Tonight Show, posted his shock on Instagram:
“Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it. I thought we’d be in this together for many more years. My family and I watched his show every night. This really hurts.”
Seth Meyers, of Late Night, praised Colbert not just for his comedy, but for his character:
“As great a comedian and host as he is, @stephenathome is an even better person. I’ll miss seeing him on TV every night—but now he has no excuse not to hang out with me.”
Jimmy Kimmel, host of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, offered a simple but powerful message:
“Love you Stephen.”
Andy Cohen, host of Watch What Happens Live, was more critical of CBS, saying:
“This is a sad day for CBS. They’re getting out of the late-night game, and it feels like they’re turning off the lights after the news. Colbert’s show was a cultural anchor.”
CBS Faces Questions About Timing and Motive
Though CBS executives have described the decision as a programming shift tied to evolving media consumption habits, many observers believe politics may have played a role. Colbert’s persistent critiques of President Trump—and his leadership during the first Trump administration—made him a cultural counterweight to the Republican political machine. With Trump now back in office and Truth Social again serving as his platform of choice, the President’s public delight has only intensified the controversy.
The timing of the cancellation—so early in Trump’s second term—has fueled speculation that CBS may be retreating from politically charged programming or attempting to reset its image under a different cultural climate. Industry insiders, however, point more often to declining ratings, shifting ad revenues, and streaming disruption as the core factors.
Colbert’s Legacy and What’s Ahead
Since taking over The Late Show in 2015, Stephen Colbert transformed the program from a conventional entertainment talk show into a potent blend of satire, cultural commentary, and political journalism. He regularly topped late-night ratings during the Trump presidency, winning Emmys and drawing viral viewership online.
Colbert’s production company, Spartina Productions, maintains a development deal with CBS Studios. While Colbert has not commented on his next move, many expect him to shift toward streaming content, podcasts, or even return to his roots in political satire through documentaries or scripted projects.
With 10 months remaining before the final broadcast, Colbert and his team have a rare opportunity to end the show on their terms. Industry experts predict farewell interviews, retrospective segments, and a final season packed with big guests and bold commentary.
The question remains whether Colbert will use the final stretch to address Trump more directly now that the stakes are even higher—or shift to reflecting on his show’s broader cultural legacy.
Culture War Flashpoint
Colbert’s exit has become the latest flashpoint in America’s ongoing cultural and political divide. Supporters see the cancellation as the loss of one of the few powerful satirical voices willing to challenge the Trump administration. Critics view it as a long-overdue correction to what they describe as late-night TV’s liberal bias.
Regardless of which side one falls on, there’s no denying that the end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert signals the conclusion of a defining chapter in political comedy. The next ten months are likely to be as headline-worthy as the man behind the desk.
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