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Colbert's Surprise Return Sparks Copyright Row
25 May
Summary
- Stephen Colbert returned to local access TV for a surprise show.
- CBS issued takedown notices for unauthorized clips online.
- The network reversed course after facing backlash from critics.

Stephen Colbert recently surprised fans with a return to "Only in Monroe," the local access show he hosted in Michigan before "The Late Show." This unexpected appearance featured guests like musician Jack White and actor Steve Buscemi. Short clips and full episodes were shared online by various media outlets and users before Colbert launched his official YouTube channel.
CBS, through its parent company Paramount, initially issued copyright takedown notices for these unauthorized uploads, citing Digital Millennium Copyright Act regulations. This move drew criticism, with some outlets calling the notices frivolous. Following public backlash, CBS announced it was waiving enforcement of these notices while it conducted a review of the situation.