Stephen Colbert Responds to Late Show Cancellation with Defiance and Solidarity from Peers

Stephen Colbert recently confronted Donald Trump in his first episode following the cancellation of his Late Show, declaring that “the gloves are off.” This marked a significant moment amid swirling political controversy, with Colbert's fellow late-night hosts, including Jon Stewart, vocally supporting him, chastising Paramount for attempting to exert control over its on-air talent.

Last week, Colbert criticized Paramount's $16 million payout to Trump related to a CBS program, labeling it a “big fat bribe.” The network's decision came shortly after Trump's post on Truth Social, celebrating Colbert's firing and revealing the fragile relationship between CBS, a subsidiary of Paramount, and the Trump-controlled Federal Communications Commission, which is crucial for an ongoing $8 billion merger.

In a bold response on Monday, Colbert humorously addressed Trump, expressing his lifelong ambition for a sitting president to celebrate the end of his career. He also made light of CBS' claimed financial losses from his show, cleverly linking them to the money paid to Trump. The episode saw Colbert's peers in late-night television, such as John Oliver, Seth Meyers, and Jon Stewart, rallying around him, demonstrating solidarity with humor and support.

On “The Daily Show,” Stewart sharply criticized CBS for not trying to save its top-rated late-night franchise, questioning whether the cancellation was driven by financial concerns or a desire to avoid conflict with Trump. Stewart’s scathing remarks culminated in a group chant aimed at corporations that yield to Trump's influence. Meanwhile, Jimmy Fallon acknowledged a viewer boycott of CBS, indicating significant backlash against the network's decision.

Colbert, visibly emotional during his episode, received praise from his guest Sandra Oh, who lamented the current state of corporate compliance. Outside The Late Show’s venue, protesters rallied in support of Colbert, carrying signs that firmly stated, “Colbert Stays! Trump Must Go!” The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between media, politics, and corporate interests in America today.