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The Late Show with Stephen Colbert isn’t new tonight because the series ended. CBS aired its series finale on May 21, 2026, so this is not a temporary rerun break or a regular hiatus.
When did The Late Show end?
The final episode aired Thursday, May 21, 2026. CBS Studios’ final-week schedule identifies that broadcast as the series finale, and CBS News also reported that the show had concluded.
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CBS Studios’ release archive lists the finale and the preceding final-week schedule.
Why did CBS end the show?
CBS described the cancellation as a “purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” according to CBS News’ May 21, 2026 report. That is the network’s stated explanation; it should not be treated as an independently established account of every factor behind the decision. CBS News also noted that some viewers and critics questioned the explanation, but those questions do not establish another motive.
#1 Best Overall
- Comedy, Mystery
- 93:00
- This Disc is formatted for all Regions and has CSS Copyright Protection (will not play in some laptops)
- ORIGINAL ASPECT RATIO - 1.78:1, 16 X 9 LETTERBOX
What airs in its time slot now?
CBS News reported that Byron Allen’s Comics Unleashed was set to take over the 11:35 p.m. ET slot. Check your local CBS listings for the schedule in your area, since station programming can vary.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you stream old episodes?
Check the current Paramount+ listing for your region and subscription plan rather than assuming the full episode archive is available. The service has a page for CBS News coverage of the cancellation announcement, but that does not confirm access to complete Late Show episodes. Paramount+’s CBS News coverage page documents the announcement, not the availability of the show’s full archive.
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