Jimmy Kimmel Criticizes CBS Over 'Late Show' Cancellation

Jimmy Kimmel has publicly criticized CBS for canceling 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,' urging viewers to boycott the network after Colbert's final episode. Colbert announced in July 2025 that CBS had decided to end his show, with the final episode scheduled for May 21, 2026. The network cited financial reasons for the cancellation, stating it was 'purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night.'

In his Wednesday monologue, Kimmel expressed solidarity with Colbert and his team, stating, 'I think you know how I feel about the fact that [the crew of The Late Show] are being pushed out.' He added, 'I hope the people who did the pushing feel ashamed of themselves tonight, although I know they probably won’t.' Kimmel encouraged his audience to watch Colbert's final episode, saying, 'I hope that those of you who watch our show will also tune in to CBS for the last time. Don’t ever watch it again, but watch tomorrow night to wish Stephen and our friends at The Late Show a fond farewell.'

Other late-night hosts have also expressed disappointment over the show's cancellation. Seth Meyers described it as a 'heartbreaking moment for American television.' David Letterman, the original host of 'The Late Show,' returned to the program to support Colbert and criticized CBS executives for their decision.

CBS's decision to end 'The Late Show' has sparked discussions about the future of late-night television and the financial challenges facing traditional broadcast networks. The network plans to replace 'The Late Show' with 'Comics Unleashed,' a politically neutral comedy show hosted by Byron Allen.