Stephen Colbert ends 'Late Show' run after eleven years as Trump celebrates departure

Stephen Colbert hosted his final episode of 'The Late Show' on CBS on Thursday, May 21, 2026, bringing an end to an eleven-year era in American late-night television. The cancellation of the successful comedy show came as broadcaster CBS sought to improve relations with President Donald Trump.

The finale became a memorable event when Beatles legend Paul McCartney appeared as the star guest. McCartney performed the classic 'Hello, Goodbye' together with Colbert - a symbolic song choice for the comedian's farewell. The show mirrored Colbert's first night as host in some ways, featuring surprising interruptions during his farewell monologues.

Colbert, who had hosted 'The Late Show' since 2015, became known for his sharp and often biting criticism of Donald Trump. His political commentary and satirical segments about Trump-related topics significantly shaped the show during recent years. This critical stance toward the president is now being discussed as one of the main reasons for the show's cancellation.

President Trump responded on Friday with a pointed statement on social media regarding Colbert's departure. 'Thank goodness he's finally gone,' Trump wrote, calling the popular American comedian a 'total jerk.' Trump further claimed that Colbert was 'like a dead person' and that 'any person off the street' would have been better than him.

'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' was considered one of the most successful comedy shows on American television. Over eleven years, Colbert had built a loyal audience and became an important voice in the American media landscape. His show was known for intelligent humor, political satire, and high-profile guests.

In his farewell episode, Colbert avoided naming Trump directly but still made pointed remarks about his forced departure from the network. He crafted the final episode as a kind of apocalyptic fable, without explicitly addressing the political circumstances of his cancellation.

CBS's decision to end the show is being viewed by media observers as part of a broader trend where media companies attempt to improve their relationships with the Trump administration. Critics see this as an assault on press freedom and democratic institutions in the United States.

Colbert's future plans remain unclear for now. The experienced entertainer, who was previously successful at Comedy Central, has not yet commented on his next professional steps. The media industry is watching closely to see where and how Colbert will continue his career.

The cancellation of 'The Late Show' marks the end of an era in American late-night television and raises questions about the future of political satire in the United States. For many viewers, Colbert's show had become an important reference point for political commentary and social criticism. The departure of such a prominent critical voice from mainstream television represents a significant shift in the media landscape during Trump's presidency.