Comedian Jon Stewart expressed his disappointment on Monday following CBS’s decision to cancel the “Late Show.” The network cited financial reasons for this move.
During a recent episode of The Daily Show, Stewart defended his fellow comedian Stephen Colbert, hinting that the cancellation might be connected to President Trump’s contentious relationship with Colbert, who has publicly challenged him.
“Stephen has surpassed all expectations in his role, and watching him on TV has genuinely been a joy for me as both a viewer and a friend,” Stewart remarked. He also mentioned that CBS had not only canceled Colbert’s show but the entire “Late Show” franchise, which is a significant loss.
Stewart acknowledged the financial struggles of late-night programming. “I recognize that these shows aren’t exactly cash cows anymore. We might as well be selling blockbuster films at Tower Records,” he said. “But when the industry is shifting, it’s not just time to throw in the towel. It’s like when CDs fell out of favor; no one just packed it up and gave up on music.”
He questioned why CBS, now under the Paramount Global umbrella, didn’t take more steps to ensure the longevity of a flagship program that has been on the air for three decades.
“It’s puzzling that CBS didn’t attempt to save a show with such a long-standing history,” he pointed out. “Or perhaps it was the easier route, especially with a massive merger in the works that plays into the hands of a particularly vulnerable leader.”
That risky merge involves billions and is subject to approval from government regulators linked to Trump, as outlined in their recent lawsuit settlement.
“I can appreciate the trepidation that comes with navigating an $8 billion crisis. But what this really shows is a desperation to silence and control voices that have made that money,” Stewart said. “It’s like you’ve lost what gave you value in the first place.”
He emphasized, “This isn’t about being courageous and telling the truth. We don’t broadcast our opinions; we just try to share what’s real, night after night.”
Stewart criticized CBS for potentially opting for a bland, inoffensive approach to programming, which undermines the essence of what late-night shows are about. He shared his concerns about the pervasive fear influencing American institutions these days.
“It’s disappointing that this company would choose not to stand up against the petty actions coming from our leaders,” he said. “This isn’t a moment to just give up or accept fate. I’m here to stay… I think.”
Colbert’s peers, including Seth Myers, Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel, voiced their support for him in light of CBS’s recent decision and the criticism from Trump.
