Stephen Colbert isn’t shying away from poking fun at CBS’ recent decision to cancel “The Late Show” – in fact, he’s actively seeking offers from other networks while on air.
During his final “Late Show” taping before a summer break, Colbert referenced a Daily Beast article about vice president JD Vance’s request to raise a river’s water level in Ohio for a boat trip. Colbert responded by introducing a new character, “Wittle Pwince Vance,” donning a mask of Vance’s face and using a baby voice to mock the entitled behavior. He joked about wanting the river raised for his birthday and demanding the sky be painted red, all while asking for a juice box. Colbert then jokingly solicited offers from Netflix and Amazon as “The Late Show” is set to conclude in May 2026.
In addition to the light-hearted banter, Colbert addressed Donald Trump’s recent criticisms of him and other late-night hosts. Trump had disparaged Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel, insinuating that they lacked talent and hinting at potential cancellations. Colbert responded humorously, acknowledging the ratings competition and thanking Trump for agreeing to be featured in a fake “Late Show” promo.
The cancellation of “The Late Show” by CBS sparked speculation about potential political motives, especially given the recent legal settlement between CBS’ parent company, Paramount, and Trump. While Paramount cited financial reasons for ending the show, concerns about political influence lingered, prompting strong reactions from journalists, Hollywood unions, and even Trump himself.
Colbert’s ability to address controversial topics with humor and wit has been a hallmark of his tenure on “The Late Show.” Despite the show’s impending conclusion, Colbert continues to entertain and engage his audience with his signature brand of comedy. As he explores potential opportunities with other networks, fans can expect to see more of Colbert’s unique comedic style in the future.
