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Colbert's Flaming Toboggan Ride Ends
30 Aug
Summary
- Colbert hosted The Late Show for eleven seasons.
- The show was cancelled due to financial considerations.
- Colbert viewed the cancellation as a potential favor.
Stephen Colbert's tenure on The Late Show concluded in May 2026, marking the end of an eleven-season run. The host learned of the cancellation in July 2025 but continued producing episodes until the final broadcast. CBS stated financial considerations prompted the decision, despite the show leading its late-night competition in ratings.
Colbert likened the daily production of The Late Show to a "flaming toboggan ride," acknowledging the immense energy it required. He considered the show's ending a potential favor, offering him the chance to pursue other projects while still having the drive to do so. He had been discussing writing a Lord of the Rings project with his son, Peter.
During the months between learning of the cancellation and his final show, Colbert focused on appreciating the experience. He reportedly never let his significant place in late-night television history go unappreciated, even as the show's end loomed.
