The Journal. What Killed 'The Late Show'?
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Jul 25, 2025 
Joe Flint, a media expert from the WSJ, digs into the surprising cancellation of CBS's The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. He explores financial struggles and political undertones influencing the decision, particularly Colbert's critique of Paramount. Flint reflects on the evolution of late-night TV, touching on how the genre's comedic and political landscapes have changed since the days of Johnny Carson. The conversation highlights the competition from platforms like YouTube and raises alarms about the future of communal TV viewing in today's fragmented media landscape.
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Colbert Announces Late Show's End
- Stephen Colbert announced The Late Show will end in May 2026 with audience boos.
- He expressed shared disappointment and noted it marked the end of late night on CBS.
CBS Exits Late Night TV
- Late night TV audiences and ad revenues have declined sharply.
- CBS is wholly exiting late night TV, not just replacing Colbert with a cheaper option.
Colbert Finds His Political Niche
- Colbert shifted The Late Show towards political satire, especially targeting Trump, reviving its ratings.
- His political focus was a successful adjustment from his initial broader approach.