Late-Night TV Shake-Up: What's Next for Comedy Shows?

CBS Ends "Late Show" with Stephen Colbert

Late-night TV is experiencing significant changes, with CBS recently announcing the end of its long-running "Late Show" with Stephen Colbert. This decision is part of a broader trend as TV networks adapt to changing viewership habits and advertising landscapes.

Advertising Decline Drives Changes

• 2018: Advertisers spent around $439 million on five major late-night shows.
• 2024: That number dropped to $220.6 million.

Factors contributing to this decline include:

• The coronavirus pandemic
• A Hollywood labor strike
• Younger viewers preferring online clips over live broadcasts

CBS's Decision

CBS has been aware of these changes for some time. They did not want to force Colbert to take a pay cut or reduce his staff. However, the decline in ad support made it difficult to sustain the show.

Colbert's show, which has been a staple since David Letterman started it in 1993, has been one of the most-watched late-night programs. His humor, often targeting President Donald Trump and Republicans, has raised concerns, especially after CBS settled a legal case with Trump.

Future Uncertainty

CBS had to act quickly due to the one-year contracts of writers and producers. Colbert and his staff will remain on air for another ten months, indicating a good relationship despite the changes.

Losing "Late Show" will be a significant loss for CBS, as it drives regular viewership and captures substantial ad dollars. However, NBC still captures the majority of late-night ad dollars, with some advertisers preferring to avoid Colbert's show due to his commentary.

Other Late-Night Hosts Face Changes

• Jon Stewart: On a year-to-year contract; Skydance Media will decide the future of "The Daily Show."
• Fallon and Meyers: Have deals keeping them at NBC through 2028.
• Kimmel: Has a deal keeping him at ABC through 2026, possibly nearing the end of his late-night tenure.

The Evolution of Late-Night TV

Late-night hosts now do more than just entertain. They engage in:

• Social media
• Outside programs
• Promotional deals

They also comment on an increasingly intense news cycle. With all these changes, the future of late-night TV remains uncertain.