David Letterman has come out swinging against CBS parent company Paramount Global over the cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s “The Late Show.” The former host, who was replaced by Colbert in 2015, called the move “pure cowardice” and “gutless,” targeting the network and its CEO-to-be, David Ellison.
Colbert announced on July 17 that his show would be ending in May after over 30 years, despite being the top-rated program at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT. Paramount claimed the cancellation was due to financial reasons, citing a reported $40 million annual loss, but Letterman disputes this explanation.
In a recent interview on Letterman’s YouTube channel, he questioned the motivations behind the cancellation, suggesting that Paramount is more concerned with avoiding trouble from Ellison than standing up for freedom of speech and the press. Letterman also expressed his disappointment in how Colbert was handled by the network, stating that those who made the decision will regret their move.
The 78-year-old comedian joked about being a “martyr” for his own firing, saying he’s now forced to “kiss Stephen Colbert’s ring.” His scathing critique of Paramount highlights his enduring loyalty and affection for Colbert and the late-night program.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2025/07/25/david-letterman-speaks-out-late-show-canceled-stephen-colbert/85382627007