Stephen Colbert’s Final Year at CBS

Stephen Colbert’s final days with CBS marked a tumultuous period filled with constant critiques of then-President Donald Trump. As host of The Late Show since 2015, Colbert brought a liberal slant to the program, frequently targeting Trump in his monologues and promoting a Democratic agenda.

In July 2025, CBS announced the cancellation of The Late Show, prompting Colbert to embark on a year-long farewell tour, which concluded on May 21. Throughout this time, he openly criticized CBS for its decision, suggesting it was influenced by political pressures and financial considerations.

Colbert’s tenure was notable for his outspoken political activism, inviting several prominent Democrats and liberal celebrities on his show. Guests included former President Barack Obama, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and actors like Jane Fonda and Mark Ruffalo. These appearances highlighted the show’s alignment with progressive values.

The final months of Colbert’s show sparked interest as much for the guests as for Colbert’s own critiques of CBS. In a particular episode, he accused CBS of settling with Trump for financial gain, a move he compared to a bribe. This controversial stand elevated tensions with his network.

As Colbert prepared to sign off, he continued to leverage his platform to voice grievances against CBS and its management. He alleged that CBS blocked a pivotal interview with Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico, although the network contested his claims. Despite disagreements, Colbert’s capacity to challenge authority and provoke dialogues underscored his impact.

Upon The Late Show‘s conclusion, the TV industry witnessed strong reactions. Some praised Colbert for speaking truth to power, while others critiqued the show’s focus on political drama. Variety noted that the last episodes emphasized tributes to Colbert, contributing to public interest despite mixed opinions on content relevance.

Stephen Colbert will be remembered for his significant contributions to late-night television. His confrontational style and political engagement transformed The Late Show into a platform for political resistance, garnering both admiration and division.