David Letterman Criticizes CBS Over “Late Show” Cancellation
On Friday, comedian David Letterman joined fellow late-night hosts in criticizing CBS after the network announced it would be ending “The Late Show” after more than three decades on air.
Letterman, the show’s inaugural host, alluded to a recent $16 million settlement between CBS’s parent company, Paramount Global, and the Trump administration. He described the move to end the program as “gutless,” especially in light of an expected merger with entertainment giant Skydance.
“It’s really embarrassing for the CBS crew who have had to navigate this, even if it’s, you know, not just today,” he remarked during a recorded discussion with former producers Barbara Gaines and Mary Barclay. “It’s a shame because they lack the courage to face the music.” He added, jokingly, “I hope this happens to me. It must have been such a fantastic ride for me.”
Paramount characterized the decision as “purely financial,” claiming it had nothing to do with the show’s actual performance. However, Letterman and several advocates, including some Democrats, seemed displeased with that explanation.
He placed the blame on what he called “oracle twins,” referring to billionaire Larry Ellison and his son David. The merger is anticipated to conclude by August 7th.
“There’s no fairness with these goons,” Letterman stated, further asserting, “They’re bottom feeders, and that’s precisely what they are.”
“They know broadcast television is fading away, and now they want a piece of it. They don’t want to be hassled by the U.S. government, so they leave CBS to handle all that chaos,” he elaborated.
Letterman also condemned CBS’s settlement with Trump after a lawsuit involving “60 Minutes,” which aired an interview with former Vice President Harris during the 2024 election, calling it a “pure coronavirus.”
Prominent late-night hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, John Stewart, and Seth Meyers have come to the defense of Stephen Colbert, who publicly expressed concerns over Paramount’s recent changes. Letterman echoed that support.
“For Stephen, I think this is great. He’s kind of a martian in his own way. Good for him, right?” he said during the conversation with his former producer.
He later quipped, “Now we all have to kiss Stephen Colbert’s ring. If you listen closely, you can almost hear him unfolding Hall of Fame chairs for his guidance.”
Colbert, who succeeded Letterman in 2015, has had a tumultuous relationship with Trump lately. Trump himself commented on social media this week, expressing disdain for Colbert’s talent in light of CBS’s decision to conclude the show by May 2026.
Letterman concluded with a punch, saying, “What do you dare? Can the first person step up with the next bit of satirical wit?”
