Stephen Colbert's Late Show Ends, But His Impact Lingers

Key facts

• Stephen Colbert's "The Late Show" will conclude its run on May 21.
• The show's cancellation was announced by Colbert in July.
• CBS cited financial reasons for the decision to end the No. 1 late-night program.
• Colbert has been a vocal critic of former President Trump.
• He is co-writing an installment of the "Lord of the Rings" film franchise.
• Colbert's career began with "The Colbert Report" on Comedy Central.
• He replaced David Letterman on "The Late Show" in 2015.
• Colbert's father and two brothers died in a plane crash in 1974.

A Final Broadcast Signals End of an Era

Stephen Colbert's tenure as host of "The Late Show" culminates on May 21, marking the conclusion of his 11th season and a significant chapter in late-night television. The announcement of the show's cancellation last July sent ripples through the industry, particularly given its consistent ranking as the No. 1 program in its time slot. While the network, CBS, attributed the decision to financial considerations, the move surprised many, especially as it followed a substantial settlement by its parent company, Paramount. Colbert himself has been forthright about the circumstances surrounding the show's end. He revealed that he made an arrangement with his employers last summer, granting him the freedom to speak candidly about the cancellation and its potential implications. This newfound candor has been evident in his commentary, which has continued to offer sharp critiques of former President Donald Trump and the network's new ownership. His departure from "The Late Show" is not a retreat from the public eye, however. Colbert has already begun exploring new creative avenues, including a long-held passion project: co-writing an installment of the "Lord of the Rings" film franchise. This endeavor, six years in the making, represents a significant personal milestone for the self-proclaimed superfan. Despite the looming end of his late-night career, Colbert remains committed to performance. He has stated his intention to stay "in front of the lens, baby," and has been fielding scripts for future projects. The possibility of creating another show remains open, signaling that his desire to connect with audiences through his unique brand of humor and commentary is far from extinguished.

Financial Realities Behind the Cancellation

The decision by CBS to end "The Late Show" was framed by the network as a purely financial one. This explanation, however, was met with skepticism by many in the entertainment world, given the show's consistent dominance in viewership. The timing of the announcement also raised eyebrows, occurring shortly after Paramount's agreement to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit related to a "60 Minutes" interview. Colbert himself acknowledged the business realities driving the decision. He recounted a conversation with his manager, James "Babydoll" Dixon, who delivered the news of the show's final season. Dixon reportedly conveyed that the cancellation was due to the show "not making any money," a statement Colbert accepted with a pragmatic "OK. I mean, it's their business." He expressed understanding of the corporate imperative to generate revenue, stating, "I'm a company man, and I understand that people are here to make the green stuff." Reports circulating in the months since the announcement suggested that "The Late Show" was incurring an annual loss of approximately $40 million. This figure underscores the network's perspective on the show's financial viability, even as it held the top spot in late-night ratings. The narrative of a financially driven cancellation, while potentially jarring to viewers, aligns with the broader pressures faced by media conglomerates in a rapidly evolving landscape.

A Critic of Power, Grounded in Empathy

Throughout his career, Stephen Colbert has established himself as one of late-night television's most formidable voices, particularly in his role as a critic of political power. His commentary on former President Donald Trump was consistently sharp, incisive, and often delivered with a palpable moral conviction. Colbert frequently employed tactics like referring to Trump as "the former guy" when he was out of office, highlighting his deep-seated disapproval. Yet, beyond the acerbic wit and political takedowns, what truly defines Colbert's appeal is his grounding in empathy and deeply held values. Unlike many who punch down, Colbert consistently "punches up," directing his humor and critique toward those in positions of authority. This approach, coupled with a remarkable grasp of the larger societal picture, has allowed him to forge a unique connection with his audience. This capacity for empathy was perhaps most profoundly demonstrated in the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election. Following Donald Trump's unexpected victory, Colbert, visibly shaken, offered reassurance to his viewers, particularly the younger demographic. He shared a photograph of the middle school where he had voted, emphasizing the enduring beauty of ordinary places and encouraging his audience not to be consumed by political turmoil. The following night, he candidly expressed his own personal disorientation, revealing a striking vulnerability that humanized his public persona.

Personal Tragedy and a Broader Perspective

Colbert's journey has been shaped by profound personal loss, which has undeniably contributed to his unique perspective on life and public service. In 1974, at the tender age of 10, he experienced an unthinkable tragedy when his father and two of his brothers perished in a plane crash. This early encounter with grief left an indelible mark. Remarkably, in a 2022 conversation on Anderson Cooper's podcast, Colbert reflected on this profound loss, stating that he had eventually become "grateful" for the grief he experienced. This startling assertion deeply impacted Cooper, who later described it as mind-blowing. It suggests a capacity to find meaning and growth even in the most devastating circumstances. This broad perspective, forged through personal adversity, has informed Colbert's public advocacy. In 2010, he testified before a congressional subcommittee on behalf of migrant workers. As a devout yet irreverent Roman Catholic, he invoked biblical passages urging compassion for "the least of my brothers" and directly addressed the plight of migrant laborers, highlighting their suffering and lack of rights. His early career, beginning with the satirical "The Colbert Report" on Comedy Central, saw him embody a right-wing blowhard persona. However, even within that character, moments of genuine emotion surfaced. He was visibly moved on Election Night 2008 when Barack Obama secured the presidency, a reaction rooted in his upbringing in South Carolina and his understanding of the historical significance of the nation's first Black president.

A Legacy of Commentary and Connection

Stephen Colbert's impending departure from "The Late Show" signifies the end of an era in late-night television, positioning him alongside such giants as Johnny Carson, David Letterman, and Jon Stewart on a hypothetical Mount Rushmore of the genre. His influence extends beyond mere ratings; he has been instrumental in refining comedy as a vehicle for incisive social and political commentary. His ability to blend sharp critique with genuine empathy has resonated deeply with audiences. While he has never shied away from confronting uncomfortable truths or challenging powerful figures, his humor has always been rooted in a sense of shared humanity and a commitment to "punching up." This approach has fostered a unique bond, allowing viewers to see not just a comedian, but a relatable individual grappling with the complexities of the world. Colbert's willingness to share his own vulnerabilities, particularly in moments of national uncertainty, has further cemented this connection. His reflections on personal tragedy and his advocacy for marginalized groups demonstrate a depth of character that transcends the typical late-night host persona. As his final broadcast approaches, the lasting impact of his work—a blend of wit, wisdom, and unwavering principle—is undeniable.

The bottom line

• Stephen Colbert's "The Late Show" is concluding its run on May 21 after 11 seasons.
• CBS cited financial reasons for the cancellation, despite the show's top ratings.
• Colbert will be involved in writing for the "Lord of the Rings" film franchise.
• His career is marked by sharp political commentary and a foundation of empathy.
• Colbert has spoken openly about personal tragedy and its impact on his perspective.
• He is expected to pursue new projects, continuing his presence in front of the camera.