In a twist that has sent shockwaves through late-night television and the political world alike, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert — the jewel of CBS’ primetime lineup — is set to end in 2026. Officially, CBS says the move is “purely a financial decision.” But insiders, former colleagues, and even a U.S. senator are now openly questioning whether this was about dollars… or about silencing a voice that hit too close to home for the powerful.
And at the heart of the outrage? Grammy- and Academy Award-winning musician Jon Batiste — Colbert’s longtime bandleader — who has come out swinging in defense of his former boss.
A Partnership That Defined a Decade
Batiste isn’t just another celebrity weighing in. He and Colbert launched The Late Show’s new era together in 2015, just after David Letterman stepped away from his legendary desk. Batiste, then in his 20s, was an unconventional choice — a jazz prodigy, a New Orleans native with an infectious energy, and a fresh take on the traditional talk-show bandleader role.
For seven years, night after night, Batiste’s music and Colbert’s wit became an inseparable part of American late-night culture.
Speaking to Rolling Stone AU/NZ ahead of his new album release, Batiste was candid about the cancellation — and what he thinks is really going on.
“What happened to my friend Stephen is a symptom of big money,” Batiste said flatly. “We’re in a time where the right price can silence the voice of free speech, which we should be very, very conscious of.”
For Batiste, the issue goes beyond television.
“As artists, we have to constantly fight for free speech and fight for the ability to be able to share the authentic truth of our being,” he said.
Did Colbert’s Monologue Cross a Line?
Batiste’s defense comes on the heels of explosive allegations from Senator Elizabeth Warren, who published an opinion piece in Variety raising eyebrows across the industry.
According to Warren, Paramount — CBS’ parent company — is in the midst of an $8 billion merger with Skydance Media. That deal, she says, needs the blessing of the Trump administration.
And here’s where things get murky.
Warren alleges that Paramount settled a “meritless” lawsuit brought by Donald Trump, paying $16 million to Trump’s presidential library.
Three days before CBS announced Colbert’s show would be canceled, Colbert took aim at that very settlement in a scorching monologue.
“This kind of complicated financial settlement with a sitting government official has a technical name in legal circles,” Colbert told his audience. “It’s ‘big, fat bribe.’”
The audience roared. The clip went viral.
And then… three days later, CBS announced The Late Show was done.
Trump quickly celebrated the decision, posting a triumphant statement online.
Colbert’s Voice: Too Big to Ignore, Too Sharp to Tolerate?
In his nearly decade-long run, Colbert has transformed The Late Show into the most-watched program in late-night, routinely outpacing Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel. His monologues, often politically charged, have been credited with shaping national conversations — and infuriating political opponents.
That’s what makes the “purely financial” explanation hard for many to swallow.
Batiste certainly doesn’t believe it’s just about money.
“I’m very grateful to him,” Batiste said of Colbert. “I think where he goes next, his voice won’t be silenced. The voice of free speech is challenged, but the soul of an individual cannot be cancelled. He’s gonna find another megaphone, another outlet, I’m sure of it. I’m rooting for him.”
From Music to Media Firestorm
Batiste’s comments carry extra weight because of his history with the show. He met Colbert 11 years ago, long before either knew how their partnership would change both their careers.
“It meant so much to be in my 20s on national television and learning the ropes of being on a nightly show with a band,” Batiste reflected. “To evolve as an artist in partnership with him — that was a gift.”
Batiste left The Late Show in 2022 to focus on his own music, but his loyalty to Colbert has never wavered.
Now, with Colbert’s exit looming, Batiste’s public defense feels like more than friendship — it’s a rallying cry.
Industry and Public Reactions: A Divide Emerges
Reaction to the cancellation has been swift and polarizing.
Jon Stewart called it “a loss for truth-telling in late-night.” David Letterman, in a rare public statement, said, “This feels like the wrong call at the wrong time.”
Online, hashtags like #KeepColbert and #BigFatBribe have trended for days, with fans accusing CBS of caving to political pressure.
Others, however, believe the network’s explanation, citing shifting viewing habits, the rise of streaming, and late-night’s declining ratings overall.
Still, even skeptics admit the timing is… convenient.
Leave a Reply