Renowned comedian David Letterman has openly criticized CBS' decision to cancel his successor Stephen Colbert’s beloved late-night program, “The Late Show.” In a recent video montage shared on YouTube, Letterman, who hosted “The Late Show” from 1993 to 2015, humorously roasts the television network, highlighting his tumultuous relationship with CBS over the decades. The caption accompanying the clip read, “You can’t spell CBS without BS,” a statement that has sparked significant conversations among fans and industry insiders alike.
The release of Letterman's video montage has fueled speculation, particularly as it appeared just four days after CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show” after a remarkable ten-year run. The timing of this clip has led to rampant discussions in the entertainment community, raising questions about the network's choices and the future of late-night programming.
During a recent taping at the historic Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, Stephen Colbert addressed the audience about the network's decision. “Before we start the show, I want to let you know something that I found out just last night: Next year will be our last season,” he informed the crowd. The announcement, which confirmed that “The Late Show” would conclude in May, was met with loud boos and disappointment from his loyal fanbase. Colbert empathized with the audience, stating, “Yeah, I share your feelings. It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of ‘The Late Show’ on CBS. I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away.”
Colbert took a moment to reflect on the past decade, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to connect with his audience. “We get to do this show for each other, every day, all day, and I’ve had the pleasure and the responsibility of sharing what we do every day with you in front of this camera for the last 10 years,” he shared. With enthusiasm, he added, “And it’s a job that I’m looking forward to doing with this usual gang of idiots for another 10 months. It’s going to be fun.”
In the wake of Colbert's announcement, a wave of support has poured in from some of comedy’s biggest names, including Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, John Oliver, Jon Stewart, Adam Sandler, and many others. These prominent figures have voiced their solidarity with Colbert, emphasizing the impact of “The Late Show” on the late-night landscape. The cancellation has raised eyebrows, especially given the network's stated financial reasons behind the decision.
Interestingly, CBS' announcement came just days after Colbert publicly criticized a $16 million settlement reached between Paramount, CBS' parent company, and the Trump administration. This timing has led to speculation about whether Colbert's outspoken nature played a role in the network's decision to end the show.
As the entertainment world prepares for the final season of “The Late Show,” fans and colleagues alike are left reflecting on the significant contributions of Stephen Colbert to late-night television and the legacy that David Letterman has left behind. The future of late-night programming remains uncertain, but the impact of these two iconic figures will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
