Writers union wants investigation after CBS axes Colbert show
(MENAFN) The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is calling for an official investigation into CBS’s sudden decision to cancel The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, alleging the move may have been influenced by political pressure.
CBS confirmed earlier this week that The Late Show will conclude in May 2026, bringing an end to the long-running franchise after more than 30 years. Network executives cited falling advertising revenue and shifting viewer habits as the reasons behind the cancellation.
In a joint statement on Friday, the WGA’s East and West Coast branches acknowledged that cancellations are common in the industry but warned that axing a show under political pressure “is dangerous and unacceptable in a democratic society.” The union urged New York state authorities to launch a formal probe.
The WGA highlighted the timing of the decision, noting it came shortly after CBS reached a $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump, who had sued the network for alleged media bias stemming from a 60 Minutes segment during the 2024 election. Although Paramount admitted no wrongdoing, it agreed to the payout earlier this month.
Colbert publicly criticized the settlement on-air, calling it a “big fat bribe” and linking it to Paramount Global’s ongoing efforts to win regulatory approval for its planned merger with Skydance Media — a deal that could face government scrutiny.
The WGA described the settlement as a “capitulation to President Trump” and accused CBS of sacrificing free speech to smooth the path for its merger.
Several late-night hosts have spoken out in support of Colbert. Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon expressed shock at the decision, while Jimmy Kimmel Live! host Jimmy Kimmel voiced solidarity with Colbert and harshly criticized CBS.
Trump, meanwhile, praised the show’s cancellation on Truth Social, writing, “I hear Jimmy Kimmel is next. Has even less talent than Colbert!”
Although CBS has claimed neutrality, Colbert has been a frequent critic of Trump, often using satire to target the former president and describing his actions as authoritarian.
Despite the controversy, The Late Show enjoyed a strong performance during the 2024–2025 season, averaging 3.61 million viewers — a 16% increase from the previous year — and remaining the most-watched late-night program during the fall.
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