What Killed 'The Late Show'?

The podcast episode discusses the cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on CBS. Initially, CBS cited financial reasons for ending the show when Colbert's contract expires in May 2026, pointing to declining late-night television viewership and ad revenue. However, some fans speculate that Colbert's political commentary, particularly his criticism of Donald Trump and a recent monologue about a settlement between Paramount (CBS's parent company) and Trump, may have contributed to the decision. Despite CBS's denial, the timing of the cancellation, shortly after Colbert's critical monologue and amidst a pending merger, raises questions. The episode further explores the broader challenges facing late-night TV, including competition from online platforms like YouTube, declining ad revenues, and the high costs of production, suggesting a potential end to an era of unifying cultural TV experiences.