After more than a decade behind the desk, Stephen Colbert is preparing to bid farewell to late-night television. CBS has officially set May 21, 2026, as the final broadcast of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, marking the end of an era not just for the host, but for the franchise itself.
Colbert took over the late-night torch from David Letterman in 2015, transforming The Late Show into a ratings powerhouse and a cultural touchstone, particularly during politically charged times. His blend of sharp satire, heartfelt interviews, and musical spontaneity reinvigorated the format and kept it at the forefront of public discourse.
CBS originally revealed plans to sunset the show in 2025 as part of a larger reconfiguration of its late-night strategy, citing financial and structural motivations. While fans held out hope for a pivot, the network has stood firm, signaling a broader shift away from traditional late-night programming as viewing habits evolve.
The network’s decision to retire the Late Show brand entirely underscores just how significant the shift is. Rather than recasting the show with a new host or revamping its format, CBS is closing the book on one of the longest-running late-night legacies in TV history.
Colbert, for his part, has expressed deep gratitude for his team and viewers. With only four months left, he says the impending finale now feels “real” and emotionally resonant.
There has been no announcement regarding what CBS will air in the coveted 11:30 p.m. slot following Colbert’s departure. Nor has Colbert hinted at any new projects. What’s certain is that his presence in the late-night landscape will be missed—and that May 21 will be a night to remember.