The Bill Simmons Podcast The Colbert-CBS Drama and NFL Leap Team Possibilities With Matt Belloni and Nate Tice
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Jul 21, 2025 
Matt Belloni, a media expert and host of The Town podcast, discusses CBS canceling The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and its ramifications for late-night television amid changing viewer habits. NFL analyst Nate Tice dives into potential breakout teams for the upcoming season, examining the strengths and challenges faced by contenders like the Rams and Bucs. He also humorously analyzes quarterback performances and team dynamics, offering fresh insights for football fans eagerly anticipating the season ahead.
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Colbert Show's High Cost Issue
- CBS canceled Stephen Colbert's show due to unsustainable $40M annual losses.
- The show's digital footprint and ancillary revenue couldn't offset high production costs.
Late Night Model Outdated
- Late night shows have not innovated despite drastic audience and ad revenue declines since COVID.
- Maintaining expensive traditional formats is no longer viable in today's media landscape.
Digital Viral Stunts Aren't Enough
- Late night shows create viral digital moments to extend reach beyond linear broadcasts.
- However, the core hour-long format remains monologue, celebrity bit, and musical guest without fundamental change.