In a bold show of solidarity, Jimmy Kimmel fired back at CBS after the network announced the abrupt cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, set to end in May 2026. The move stunned late-night fans and insiders alike, igniting heated debate over whether the decision stemmed from financial woes—or political pressure.

Colbert’s Cancellation: A Shockwave in Late-Night TV

CBS announced the end of The Late Show following Stephen Colbert’s outspoken criticism of Paramount’s $16 million settlement with former President Donald Trump. Despite being the #1 show in its slot for nine straight seasons and even earning Emmy nods, CBS cited steep losses—reportedly around $40 million a year—as justification.

However, timing raised eyebrows. The cancellation came just days after Colbert slammed the settlement on air, prompting speculation of political motives.

Jimmy Kimmel Strikes Back

Fellow late-night host Jimmy Kimmel didn’t hold back. On Instagram, he posted a clip of Colbert’s emotional announcement followed by a blistering message:

“Love you Stephen. F— you and all your Sheldons CBS.”

It was a moment of raw emotion—and outrage. Kimmel’s harsh words echoed across the industry, with others swiftly joining the chorus.

Solidarity from the Late-Night Community

The backlash was unanimous:

• Jimmy Fallon praised Colbert’s wit and expressed deep disappointment.
• John Oliver, Seth Meyers, Jon Stewart, Adam Scott, and Rachel Zegler all voiced support, describing the decision as heartbreaking and unfair.
• Sandra Oh even joked, wishing “a plague” on CBS and Paramount—another sign that the cancellation struck a nerve.
• Senator Elizabeth Warren weighed in, urging an investigation into possible political motives behind the decision.

Did Politics Play a Role?

While CBS maintains the cancellation was strictly financial, critics point to a troubling pattern: Colbert criticized the Trump-linked settlement mere days before the axe fell. This timing—combined with mounting pressure amid a major merger and the Trump administration’s favorable stance toward CBS—has sparked deep speculation across Hollywood and political circles.

The End of an Era

The Late Show has been a cornerstone of late-night television since David Letterman’s debut in 1993. Colbert took the reins in 2015 and maintained top ratings through a decade-long run. Its impending end signals a dramatic shift—and a sobering comment on the state of legacy broadcast TV in the streaming age.

What Comes Next—and What Matters

Colbert will continue hosting until May 2026, closing the book on an iconic era of late-night TV. Meanwhile, fans and colleagues alike are rallying around him—and questioning the role of media, money, and influence in shaping what we see on our screens.

Final Take: Jimmy Kimmel’s unapologetic “F— you, CBS” speaks louder than any press release. It’s not just about one show ending—it’s about defending the freedom to speak truth to power, even when it costs money. And that’s a rallying cry for an entire industry and audience.