Stephen Colbert expresses gratitude despite sudden end to CBS talk show

• Stephen Colbert will host his final episode of The Late Show on 21 May.
• The host acknowledged that traditional broadcast models are struggling against major streaming platforms.
• Stephen Colbert expressed a preference for gratitude over anger regarding his sudden departure.
  

Stephen Colbert has offered a serious assessment of his departure from The Late Show ahead of his final broadcast on 21 May.

In a candid interview with the New York Times, the late-night host addressed the network's decision to conclude his eleven-year tenure.

While CBS maintains the cancellation was "purely a financial decision" necessitated by a "challenging backdrop in late night," Colbert has frequently highlighted that the verdict was delivered just two days after he criticised a $16 million settlement involving Paramount Global on air.

Despite the suspicious timing, Colbert noted he does not wish to engage in a public dispute with the network. "I do not dispute their rationale. I do make jokes about it," he told the publication, acknowledging that while the situation "seems fishy" to the public, the broader struggle of broadcast television is a reality.

He conceded that traditional networks are finding it increasingly difficult to monetise content due to the rise of streaming services and competition from platforms like YouTube.

Reflecting on the shift in the network's stance, he observed that less than two years ago, executives were "very eager" for him to sign a long-term contract.

Nevertheless, Colbert is choosing to focus on the positive aspects of his career rather than the circumstances of the cancellation.

He concluded by stating he feels much better to be "grateful for" rather than "mad about" his decade at CBS.

Following the finale, the comedian is expected to focus on his various production ventures and potential new projects within the evolving digital media landscape.