why did colbert get cancelled

Stephen Colbert's show "The Late Show" was canceled primarily due to financial reasons, despite its strong ratings and cultural influence. CBS and its parent company Paramount Global cited the challenging financial backdrop in late- night television and losses associated with the show as the main factors for the cancellation. It was emphasized by CBS executives that the decision was not due to the show's performance, content, or any political reasons officially. However, some skepticism remains among observers and Colbert's supporters, considering the timing of the cancellation shortly after a $16 million settlement between CBS and the Trump administration, as well as Colbert's outspoken criticism of Trump. There are also theories about cost- cutting related to an ongoing merger between Paramount and Skydance Media, which may have influenced the decision as part of corporate restructuring and financial optimization efforts. Colbert himself addressed the situation humorously and with gratitude toward CBS, with the show continuing until May 2026.