It’s official: CBS has pulled the plug on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert after staggering financial losses and mounting backlash. Sources confirm the network was losing over $46 million a year, and execs finally said enough is enough.
Colbert didn’t go quietly. He’s been lashing out — at Trump, CBS, and anyone in his way — claiming the move was political. But insiders say the writing’s been on the wall for months.
Kevin O’Leary didn’t mince words: “I’d fire that guy in four seconds.” The investor slammed Colbert’s public meltdown, calling him arrogant and out of touch. “You’re losing $40 million a year and still biting the hand that feeds you? You should be thanking CBS, not bashing them.”
Despite being number one in ratings, Colbert’s show couldn’t justify the costs. Critics say The Late Show had morphed into a left-wing lecture series, driving away advertisers and middle America. Even Conan O’Brien took a jab, calling modern late-night hosts “lazy” and “repetitive.”
Colbert’s loyal fans call him a “martyr for free speech.” But the irony is thick: when Tucker Carlson got fired, Colbert cheered. Now the tables have turned.
And Trump? He’s loving it. “His talent was even less than his ratings,” the former President posted. While some blame Trump for the firing, sources confirm CBS made the call long before Trump opened his mouth.
Insiders say Colbert’s contract includes a massive payout — but that could be tied up in court for years if CBS challenges it. “Let him litigate for his check,” O’Leary added. “He’s not worth the headache.”
Industry vets say this is bigger than Colbert. NBC already scaled back The Tonight Show due to weak performance. Late-night TV is dying, and networks are cutting losses fast.
Colbert’s net worth is reportedly $75 million. He can launch a podcast or a YouTube channel tomorrow — if his fanbase is really as strong as he thinks.
Bottom line: This isn’t a conspiracy. It’s capitalism. When you lose money, you get cut. No one is safe. Not even Stephen Colbert.