David Letterman criticizes CBS for canceling Stephen Colbert
David Letterman expressed his anger towards CBS, referring to them as ‘lying weasels’ due to their choice to cancel Stephen Colbert’s successful late-night talk show after being on the air for 11 seasons. The final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is scheduled to air on May 21, much to the disappointment of many fans and industry insiders. The show’s cancellation was initially disclosed in July 2025 by CBS, attributing financial reasons for the decision and announcing that the 11:35 p.m. time slot would be filled by Comics Unleashed, hosted by Byron Allen.
The end of Colbert’s show has struck a chord with audiences, as his program became synonymous with late-night television and a platform for open and honest discussions. Colbert’s recent focus on Donald Trump and his controversial comments regarding Iran’s civilization threatened by the politician further cemented the show’s reputation for tackling relevant and impactful topics.
David Letterman, a veteran television host, did not mince words when expressing his disagreement with CBS’s decision to cancel Colbert’s show. In an interview with The New York Times, Letterman criticized the network for claiming financial difficulties as the primary reason for the cancellation. He highlighted the changing landscape of television due to the rise of digital platforms and streaming services, questioning the network’s integrity and emphasizing the impact on Colbert’s audience and fans.
Additionally, Letterman pointed out what he perceived as the real motivation behind the cancellation, alleging that it was driven by corporate interests and the desire to seal a deal with Skydance, dismissing CBS’s claims of financial constraints. His strong words towards the network, referring to them as ‘lying weasels,’ underscore his disapproval of their handling of the situation.
Letterman and Colbert share a long-standing professional relationship and friendship, which blossomed when Colbert was chosen as Letterman’s successor on The Late Show in 2014-2015. Letterman, who helmed Late Night with David Letterman on NBC and the Late Show with David Letterman on CBS, endorsed Colbert as his replacement upon his retirement in 2015, highlighting their mutual respect and admiration.
Despite CBS’s assertion that the cancellation was solely a financial decision, Letterman’s criticism of the network’s motives has created a rift within the industry. The network reiterated its stance, emphasizing that the decision was based on financial considerations and had no connection to the show’s performance or content. CBS commended Colbert’s contributions to late-night television, acknowledging his comedic prowess and insightful interviews.
Ultimately, the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has sparked debates and discussions about the future of late-night television and the influence of corporate interests on programming decisions. As fans prepare to bid farewell to Colbert and his satirical commentary, the fallout from the show’s cancellation continues to reverberate within the industry.