In a move that has sent shockwaves through the comedy world, CBS announced the cancellation of Late Show with Stephen Colbert. While the network claims it was done due to financial reasons, comedian and activist Lizz Winstead argues that this is not a surprise.
Winstead worked alongside Colbert during his time on The Daily Show and saw firsthand how the network executives were reluctant to book progressive voices. She notes that comedians like Louis C.K. and Dave Chappelle are able to pack stadiums while others like herself and Kamau Bell struggle to find bookings.
The cancellation of Colbert’s show also comes as CBS parent company Paramount settled a $16 million lawsuit with Donald Trump, sparking concerns about the network’s willingness to host politicians with questionable reputations.
Winstead fears that this move is not just about Stephen Colbert but about the broader culture of free speech in comedy. She believes that comedians have power and that people might actually listen while they are laughing.
The cancellation serves as a warning shot for comedians, signaling that there’s a line they cannot cross without facing consequences. Winstead hopes that Colbert finds a new platform where he can exercise full creative control and continue to speak truth to power with his humor.
As those of us who do this work don’t wait for permission, we build it ourselves. Mic in hand. Middle finger raised.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-commentary/stephen-colbert-canceled-lizz-winstead-1235393208