Stephen Colbert show cancellation stirs passionate reactions from celebrities, politicians

The Late Show With Stephen Colbert has been cancelled at CBS, a decision which was met with shock and suspicion.

While the media channel cited the move as “purely a financial decision”, it was quickly noted that the cancellation came on the heels of Colbert criticising Paramount, who owns the channel, for their lawsuit settlement with Donald Trump over a 2024 interview which the late night host conducted with the current US President’s election rival, Kamala Harris.

Moreover, the 61-year-old comedian and writer announced during his Thursday night monologue that he will not be “replaced”, instead the channel is dismissing their late night slot altogether.

“It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of ‘The Late Show’ on CBS. I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away,” revealed Colbert alongside the news of his show’s cancellation.

Here’s how some of the celebrities and public figures reacted to the unexpected news:

Jimmy Kimmel

In his since-expired Instagram story, Colbert’s fellow late night host as well as real life friend penned a rather candid response.

“Love you Stephen. F*** you and all your Sheldons CBS,” the comedian, who also shares an agent with Colbert, wrote.

Jimmy Fallon

While another late night professional, Jimmy Fallon shared, “I really thought I’d ride this out with him for years to come.”

Seth Meyers

The Late Night With Seth Meyers host hailed his fellow comedian and host as “an even better person.”

Jamie Lee Curtis

Veteran actress and Oscar winner, Jamie Lee Curtis spoke to The Associated Press at a red carpet event on July 17, where she claimed, “Yes, they’re trying to silence people, but that won’t work.”

Elizabeth Warren

US Senator Elizabeth Warren, who also initiated an inquiry into the possibility of a bribery settlement between Paramount Global and Trump, called out the move on her X (formerly known as Twitter) account.

Bernie Sanders

Another Senator, Bernie Sanders condemned the news, and wrote about the same Paramount deal which Warren had called out.

“Stephen Colbert, an extraordinary talent and the most popular late night host, slams the deal. Days later, he’s fired,” he wrote.

Ben Stiller

Actor and comedian Ben Stiller expressed, “Sorry to hear @CBS is cancelling one of the best shows they have.”