Former Late Show host David Letterman has lashed out at CBS over the network’s decision to end the show under Stephen Colbert. According to Variety, Letterman told The New York Times what he believes was behind the move, and what he thinks of the executives who decided to pull the plug.
While he didn’t claim insider knowledge, his former association with CBS may give his assessment weight to some observers. However, the available reporting paints a more complex picture.
Network Statement and Letterman’s Rebuttal
In July, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would end in May 2026. It added that the program would not continue, with or without a different host. An official statement from the network said that it was a “purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night. It is not related in any way to the show’s performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount.”
Stephen Colbert interviews Jimmy Kimmel – YouTube, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert
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At the time, CBS’ parent company, Paramount, was in negotiations to merge with Skydance. The deal required government regulatory approval. Colbert and President Trump had frequently clashed in the public eye, leading some to suspect that Colbert’s cancelation was offered to ease the process. It was a suggestion that CBS, in its statement, clearly denied.
David Letterman, however, claims that Stephen Colbert was fired by CBS “because the people selling the network to Skydance said, ‘Oh no, there’s not going to be any trouble with that guy. We’re going to take care of the show. We’re just going to throw that into the deal. When will the ink on the check dry?'”
Emphasizing his point to NYT journalist Jason Zinoman, the former Late Show comedian said, “I’m just going to go on record as saying: They’re lying. Let me just add one other thing, Jason. They’re lying weasels.”
Stephen Colbert dances around with human needles – YouTube, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert
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Observers note that ratings for the show were strong when Colbert took over hosting duties. However, as the show leaned into what many felt were predictable progressive politics, The Late Show viewership dropped to historic lows.
Reactions From Colbert and Industry Context
Letterman’s comments echo those Colbert made at the time. Immediately after the announcement from CBS, Colbert lashed out at Paramount. “But how could it be a purely financial decision if the Late Show is No. 1 in ratings?” he asked his audience. “Yeah, it’s confusing. A lot of folks are asking that question, mainly my staff’s parents and spouses.”
While the show may have ranked number one in network late-night, overall viewership was still reportedly down about 40% from the Letterman era. Additionally, with an annual budget exceeding $100 million and reported losses of $40 to $50 million per year, CBS likely viewed the program as increasingly difficult to sustain financially.
David Letterman sits for an interview – The Late Show With Stephen Colbert
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Since then, Colbert appears to have softened his stance. While he has not entirely dismissed the idea that Paramount may have ended the show to avoid political friction with President Trump, he has also acknowledged the broader shifts in the media landscape driven by YouTube and streaming platforms. “It’s possible that two things can be true,” he recently told The New York Times.
Closing Perspective
Though David Letterman remains firm in his belief that Stephen Colbert was fired for more than the stated reasons, it’s a narrative that may only resonate with their remaining fans. For much of the broader late-night audience, attention has already shifted elsewhere, a trend reflected in the declining viewership numbers.
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