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Letterman Labels CBS’s 'Late Show' Cancellation 'Pure Cowardice'

He questions the network’s financial rationale, framing the decision as a politically motivated step to smooth Paramount’s Skydance merger.

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David Letterman speaks during the taping of the "Vax Live" fundraising concert at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on May 2, 2021.
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Overview

  • The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will wrap up its 11-year run in May 2026 following Colbert’s July 17 announcement of the cancellation.
  • CBS issued a statement attributing the move solely to financial challenges in the competitive late-night landscape.
  • David Letterman condemned the decision as “pure cowardice,” disputing that reported losses only emerged recently and faulting CBS’s handling of its marquee host.
  • Letterman suggested the cancellation was designed to placate the Trump administration ahead of Paramount Global’s pending $8 billion merger with Skydance Media.
  • The Late Show was recently nominated for Outstanding Talk Series at the 77th Emmy Awards, highlighting its continued acclaim despite being deemed unprofitable.