Overview
- In a new GQ interview, Stephen Colbert declines to allege political pressure, saying the cancellation is the network’s decision as he continues hosting into 2026.
- CBS and Paramount maintain the show was canceled for financial reasons unrelated to performance or content.
- Colbert cites the company’s $16 million payment to President Donald Trump over a lawsuit their lawyers viewed as meritless as a reason people suspect favoritism.
- At the time of the axing, Paramount was pursuing government approval for a Skydance merger, which later received clearance.
- Colbert calls the move surprising after budget cuts on a No. 1 late-night show, while Democrats questioned the motive, Trump celebrated the news, and CBS and the White House offered no new comment.