Colbert’s Final Show: A Political Farewell and Media Drama

Stephen Colbert ended his run on CBS with a mix of sharp political jabs and celebrity cameos. His monologues had long focused on criticizing President Trump and supporting Democratic causes, turning the show into a platform for partisan commentary. In July 2025 CBS announced it would end “The Late Show, ” prompting Colbert to declare a month‑long farewell tour. Colbert used the platform to attack CBS itself, accusing the network of favoring Trump in a lawsuit settlement that reportedly cost at least $16 million. He suggested the cancellation was meant to appease Trump and secure a network sale to Skydance. The FCC later approved the acquisition, while CBS cited financial reasons for ending the show. Guests on the final season included prominent Democrats such as Jen Psaki, Chris Hayes, and Rachel Maddow. Liberal media figures like Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers also appeared. Former President Barack Obama joined in a light‑hearted segment that poked fun at Trump, hinting that Colbert might make a better president. Many Democrats and Hollywood stars showed support for Colbert during his last months.

Senators Bernie Sanders, Cory Booker, and Elizabeth Warren publicly praised him as a “truth‑to‑power” voice. Actors Mark Ruffalo and Jane Fonda, along with singer Bette Midler, paid tribute on the show’s final nights. Colbert also criticized CBS for limiting a political interview with Senate candidate James Talarico, claiming it was blocked by equal‑time rules. CBS denied the claim, and a New York Times investigation found Talarico had planned to release the interview online. Colbert’s accusations were part of a broader pattern of airing grievances against network management. The final episodes felt more like a celebration than a farewell, with many guests showering Colbert with praise. Critics argued the show’s focus on itself seemed out of step with wider media issues at the time. Some viewers felt the political tone was too heavy for a late‑night audience seeking entertainment. Colbert’s last appearance also featured former host David Letterman, who celebrated the end of his own show with a symbolic act against CBS. Letterman thanked Colbert for his contributions to the country, while Colbert’s final words were a sharp rebuke of CBS executives.

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