Stephen Colbert’s tenure with CBS, marked by his spirited critiques of President Donald Trump, comes to an end as the curtain falls on his show this Thursday. Since taking over from David Letterman in 2015, Colbert has transformed ‘The Late Show’ into a platform for progressive commentary. His monologues often targeted Trump while promoting Democratic views.
Following CBS’s July 2025 announcement that ‘The Late Show’ would be canceled, Colbert embarked on a farewell tour, declaring, ‘For the next 10 months, the gloves are off.’
The show concludes on May 21, amid Colbert’s casual remarks directed at Trump and frequent criticisms of the Trump administration. The program featured numerous guests who shared Colbert’s ideology, including notable figures like former President Barack Obama, who jokingly suggested Colbert might make a better president.
The show also saw appearances from Democratic leaders, actors like Mark Ruffalo, and Jane Fonda. Bette Midler once performed a parody of ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’ attacking Trump during one of Colbert’s final episodes.
As the show’s cancellation approached, critics like Variety’s Daniel D’Addario noted the increasing focus on Colbert himself, describing it as ‘an increasingly puffy tribute.’ USA Today labeled him a ‘gallant comic avenger,’ while controversies, such as CBS allegedly blocking an interview with Senate candidate James Talarico, sparked debates over media practices.
Colbert frequently criticized CBS and its parent company Paramount, especially after they settled a lawsuit with Trump. He humorously suggested that financial motivations, rather than content, drove the network’s decisions.
Variety remarked, ‘Colbert deserved better treatment, but the show’s focus on him does not argue for its relevance.’ As the end approaches, Colbert’s impact on late-night television remains a topic of discussion, highlighting the intertwining of media and politics.