Fans of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” were shocked and outraged when news broke that the popular late-night talk show would be canceled next year. CBS announced on Thursday that they would be pulling the plug on the show in 2022, ending its six-year run.
The news sparked a wave of responses from fans on social media, with many expressing their disappointment and confusion. Some even speculated that the decision to cancel the show was a result of political pressure or backlash from Colbert’s controversial segments.
The New York Times reported on the cancellation, stating that fans were reacting to the news with “puzzlement and anger.” The article also mentioned that Colbert’s show had been struggling in the ratings, with a recent dip in viewership.
However, CBS asserted that the cancellation was simply due to financial reasons. In a statement, the network explained that they had made the decision to end the show after evaluating its performance and profitability.
Many fans were still skeptical, especially given the recent controversy surrounding Colbert’s coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and political issues. In an article by NPR, some fans expressed their belief that the cancellation was a direct result of Colbert’s strong political stance and his criticism of former President Trump.
The Guardian also reported on the cancellation, noting that the show would officially come to an end in 2026. The publication also highlighted the show’s success and impact, noting that Colbert had won multiple Emmys for his hosting and writing on the show.
Amid the backlash and speculation, Colbert’s team has remained silent on the matter. However, The Atlantic suggested that the decision to cancel the show may not be as simple as CBS claims. The publication questioned whether it was truly a “financial decision,” as the network stated, or if there were other factors at play.
The Atlantic also noted the potential impact of the show’s cancellation on the late-night talk show landscape. With Colbert’s show being one of the few that took a strong political stance, its absence may leave a void in the genre.
The cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” has left many fans disappointed and questioning the reasoning behind it. As the show’s final episodes air in the coming months, it remains to be seen how Colbert and his team will address the news and bid farewell to their loyal viewers.