‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ Is Ending Tonight With A Special Extended Finale
Key takeaways
- Hollywood & Entertainment‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ Is Ending Tonight With A Special Extended Finale By Monica Mercuri,
- Last July, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would come to an end in May 2026 after Colbert’s contract expired.
- Still, the decision sparked speculation from Democratic leaders about whether it was connected to Colbert’s public criticism of President Donald Trump and Paramount Global’s $16 million settlement.
Hollywood & Entertainment‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ Is Ending Tonight With A Special Extended Finale By Monica Mercuri,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Monica is an entertainment reporter covering TV, film, and music.Follow Author May 21, 2026, 02:19pm EDTMay 21, 2026, 02:20pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.NEW YORK - MAY 6: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert during Wednesday's May 6, 2026 show. (Photo by Scott Kowalchyk/CBS via Getty Images)CBS via Getty ImagesStephen Colbert is officially saying goodbye to The Late Show tonight. The series finale not only marks the end of the 62-year-old comedian’s 11-year tenure as host, but also closes the chapter on the Late Show franchise after more than three decades on CBS.
Last July, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would come to an end in May 2026 after Colbert’s contract expired. The news surprised many viewers and industry insiders, especially given the show’s continued success in ratings and its strong position in the late-night landscape.