Stephen Colbert is opening up emotionally as the countdown begins toward the end of an era in late-night television. With The Late Show With Stephen Colbert officially scheduled to wrap up in just four months, the longtime host admitted that the reality of the show’s conclusion is finally sinking in — and he’s not exactly happy about it.
During a recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Colbert spoke candidly about what it feels like to be approaching the final chapter of the show. The conversation came shortly after the official date for the final broadcast was revealed: Thursday, May 21.
“It Feels Real Now”
Colbert, known for his sharp wit and political humor, appeared noticeably reflective when discussing the show’s ending.
“It feels real now,” he shared with Meyers. “It did not feel… I know it was real, but now, there’s four months left.”
His words captured the strange emotional shift that often happens when something long-running finally reaches its final stretch. Even though the announcement had already been made, the fact that the finish line is now clearly visible makes it harder to ignore.
Colbert’s reaction was not dramatic or theatrical — instead, it was honest and human. For someone who has spent years delivering comedy to millions of viewers, this moment marks a major personal transition.
The Late Show Was More Than Just Comedy
While Colbert has become one of the most recognizable faces in late-night TV, he emphasized that what he loves most about The Late Show isn’t simply the spotlight or the monologues — it’s the people behind the scenes.
“What I really love is the people I do it with,” he explained.
Colbert spoke warmly about his team, many of whom have been part of his professional life for decades. He highlighted the deep bonds formed over years of working together, comparing the environment to a long-standing family.
One particularly touching example was his longtime colleague Tom Purcell, whom Colbert referred to as his “shoemaker.”
“My shoemaker, Tom Purcell, I’ve known since 1988,” he said. “And so, we’ve all been together forever.”
This detail revealed something audiences don’t always see: the show isn’t just Colbert sitting behind a desk — it’s an entire community of writers, producers, crew members, musicians, and staff who have built something together over time.
The Ed Sullivan Theater: A Special Place
Colbert also reflected on the significance of The Late Show’s iconic home — the legendary Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City.
“You can do comedy a lot of different places,” he noted. “There’s no place like the Ed Sullivan Theater.”
The theater has been a cornerstone of late-night history, hosting generations of comedians and entertainers. For Colbert, it represents more than just a stage — it represents tradition, legacy, and years of unforgettable moments.
But even with all its history, Colbert made it clear that the location is secondary compared to the relationships built inside it.
“It’s really the people,” he added. “That’s really what I care about.”
“I’m Not Thrilled With It”
Colbert didn’t try to hide his disappointment about the show ending.
“That’s really what I’ll miss more than anything,” he admitted. “And we’ll do something else together, but it feels real now. I’m not thrilled with it.”
The honesty struck a chord with fans, many of whom have watched Colbert guide the show through political turmoil, cultural shifts, and changing television trends.
His words suggest that while the show may end, the creative partnerships and friendships will continue — even if in a different form.
CBS Confirms the End of The Franchise
Back in July 2025, CBS officially confirmed that the Late Show franchise would be coming to a close.
In its statement, the network announced that the show would end at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 broadcast season.
“The Late Show With Stephen Colbert will end its historic run in May 2026 at the end of the broadcast season,” CBS said.
The network also made it clear that Colbert’s departure would not lead to a replacement host — instead, the franchise itself would be retired.
“We consider Stephen Colbert irreplaceable and will retire The Late Show franchise at that time,” the statement continued.
CBS praised Colbert’s contribution to late-night television, calling his run one that will be remembered among the greats.
“He and the broadcast will be remembered in the pantheon of greats that graced late night television.”
The Business Context Behind the Decision
The cancellation of the show comes during a complicated time in the entertainment industry, particularly as major corporate changes unfold.
The announcement arrived amid the high-profile acquisition of Paramount by Skydance. The merger, expected to finalize shortly after the show’s ending was confirmed, has raised questions about shifting priorities within the company.
Additionally, Colbert had recently made headlines after criticizing the network’s parent company for settling a lawsuit involving Donald Trump, referring to the settlement as a “big fat bribe.”
While CBS did not directly connect these events to the show’s cancellation, the timing has fueled speculation about broader industry pressures affecting late-night programming.
A Farewell Era for Late Night
The end of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert marks more than just the conclusion of one program — it symbolizes a larger shift in television.
Late-night shows have faced increasing competition from streaming platforms, social media content, and changing audience habits. Still, Colbert’s show remained one of the most influential voices in political and cultural commentary.
With only four months remaining, fans are preparing for an emotional goodbye.
Colbert’s appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers served as a reminder that behind the jokes and satire is a performer deeply connected to his team, his audience, and the tradition of late-night television.
