Stephen Colbert Opens Up About the End of 'The Late Show'

Stephen Colbert is preparing to close a major chapter in television. As the longtime host of “The Late Show” gets ready for his final episode on May 21, the comedian is looking back on his years behind the desk, the sudden cancellation of the series, and what may come next.

Stephen Colbert is nearing the end of his run as host of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” after more than a decade leading CBS’ flagship late-night program.

The 62-year-old comedian recently reflected on the show’s conclusion while speaking with People magazine ahead of the series finale, on May 21, 2026. Colbert appeared relaxed and upbeat during the interview, bringing the same humor and confidence viewers have seen throughout his years on late-night television.

“The Late Show” first launched in 1993 with David Letterman as host. Colbert took over in 2015 after spending years leading “The Colbert Report” on Comedy Central. During his tenure at CBS, the show frequently led late-night ratings and became known for its political commentary, especially during Donald Trump’s presidency.

CBS Canceled 'The Late Show' in 2025

CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show” in July 2025. The decision came shortly after Colbert criticized Paramount, CBS’ parent company, over its $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump.

Trump had filed a lawsuit against CBS News and “60 Minutes,” alleging the network deceptively edited an interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris. At the time, Paramount was also pursuing a merger with Skydance Media that required approval from the Trump administration.

Despite speculation surrounding the timing, CBS insisted the cancellation was financial and unrelated to Colbert’s commentary or the show’s content.

The network said the move was “purely a financial decision” and “not related in any way to the show’s performance, content or other matters happening at Paramount.”

Colbert recalled hearing the news while resting before a taping. “I sat up and I said, ‘I’m sorry, I’m awake. Could you say that one more time?’” he said.

Stephen Colbert on the CBS series "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on May 18, 2026. | Source: Getty Images

In the months since the announcement, Colbert has continued to address the cancellation openly on-air. He also kept criticizing Trump and discussing reports that the show had reportedly been losing tens of millions of dollars annually.

According to Colbert, being able to speak candidly about the situation was part of an understanding reached with network executives after the cancellation announcement.

Michael Keaton and Stephen Colbert on the CBS series "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on May 18, 2026. | Source: Getty Images

Colbert Says the Job Took a Personal Toll

While reflecting on the end of the program, Colbert also acknowledged the demanding nature of hosting a nightly talk show.

“I tried never to take for granted filming in the Ed Sullivan Broadway theater, having that tremendous audience, or having the ability to work with the funniest people I know every day and make jokes about the things that make me most anxious,” he said.

Colbert suggested the end of the show may ultimately give him an opportunity to focus on other parts of his life after years of maintaining the intense pace of late-night television.

“It takes a lot of bone marrow to do the show every day, and now I’ll be stepping down with enough time, enough energy to do other things that I want to do,” he added.

The comedian and his wife, Evelyn McGee Colbert, have been married for 32 years and share three adult children: Madeleine, Peter, and John. With his children now grown, Colbert described himself as an empty nester entering a new phase of life.

At the moment, Colbert said he does not have a clear plan for what comes next professionally.

One project already in development involves a screenplay inspired by “The Lord of the Rings,” which he has been working on with his son Peter for several years.

Still, Colbert joked that he remains open to new opportunities. “But I’m available. Yes,” he said with a laugh.

David Letterman and Jay Leno Reached Out When Colbert Took Over

Colbert also reflected on the moment he inherited one of late-night television’s most recognizable jobs.

When he was announced as Letterman’s successor in 2015, Colbert received calls from both Letterman and former “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno.

“Jay called me right away, and he was lovely,” Colbert recalled. He also shared Leno’s reaction to the job, imitating the comedian during the interview. “He goes, ‘Yeah, you got the pope job. You got the job ’til you’re dead.’ Well, you were wrong on that one, Jay,” Colbert joked.

Colbert’s run on “The Late Show” lasted 11 seasons and spanned major political and cultural events, including the Trump presidency, the COVID-19 pandemic, and industry-wide labor strikes.

"The Late Show" with Stephen Colbert and guest Tom Hanks during Wednesday's May 13, 2026 show. | Source: Getty Images

Colbert Nears His Final Episode

As the final broadcast approaches, Colbert appears focused more on gratitude than frustration.

The host said he appreciated the opportunity to work in the historic Ed Sullivan Theater and collaborate with writers, producers, and crew members over the years.

Even after the cancellation announcement, Colbert continued hosting nightly episodes while openly discussing the changing landscape of late-night television and the pressures facing network programming.

"The Late Show" with Stephen Colbert and guest Pedro Pascal during Tuesday's May 12, 2026 show. | Source: Getty Images

His departure will mark the end of an era for CBS. “The Late Show” has been part of the network’s lineup for more than 30 years, beginning with Letterman’s arrival from NBC in the early 1990s.

Now, Colbert is preparing to sign off after more than a decade in the chair, closing out one of the most recognizable late-night franchises on television.