In a shocking twist, liberal late-night host Stephen Colbert, one of the most vocal critics of President Donald Trump, won television’s top honor on Sunday night — just months after CBS canceled his show.
At the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, Colbert’s The Late Show took home the trophy for Outstanding Talk Series, despite the program being slated to go off the air permanently.
CBS Cancels Colbert Amid $8 Billion Deal
CBS executives claim the cancellation was strictly financial, pointing to Paramount’s $8 billion merger with Skydance Media, which required federal approval under President Trump’s administration.
However, critics suspect politics played a role in the network’s decision. Colbert has spent nearly a decade attacking Trump nightly, turning his late-night show into a liberal political megaphone. Many believe CBS may have wanted to distance itself from his divisive content.
CBS released a statement insisting, “This is purely a financial decision… It is not related to the show’s performance or political content.”
Despite CBS’ defense, the timing has fueled major speculation online.
Colbert’s Emotional Emmy Speech
During his acceptance speech, the 61-year-old host fought back tears as he thanked CBS, his staff, and his family. He also paid tribute to his longtime assistant, Amy Cole, who died in 2024.
“Now, ten years later, as we stand here in September 2025, I’ve never felt a deeper, more urgent love for this country,” Colbert said. “God bless America — stay strong and courageous.”
Hollywood elites gave Colbert a standing ovation, but critics slammed his speech as “overly dramatic” and out of touch with everyday Americans.
Trump Responds: ‘I Absolutely Love It!’
President Donald Trump celebrated Colbert’s downfall when CBS first announced the cancellation earlier this year.
“I couldn’t be happier that Colbert was let go. His talent was even worse than his ratings,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “I hear Jimmy Kimmel could be next. Greg Gutfeld outshines all of them, including the host on NBC who ruined what was once the legendary Tonight Show.”
Trump’s comments drew thunderous applause from his supporters, many of whom have abandoned traditional late-night shows in favor of Fox News’ Gutfeld!, which continues to dominate ratings.
Democrats Cry Political Conspiracy
Prominent Democrats quickly rushed to Colbert’s defense, suggesting CBS may have caved to political pressure:
- Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA): “If Paramount and CBS ended The Late Show for political reasons, the public deserves to know.”
- Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA): “CBS canceled Colbert just three days after he called out Paramount’s $16M settlement with Trump. This looks like political retaliation.”
Hollywood figures like Jon Stewart and Andy Cohen also blasted CBS for abandoning one of its highest-rated shows.
The End of Liberal Late Night?
Colbert’s program will officially end in May 2026, leaving CBS scrambling to fill its late-night lineup.
Meanwhile, Fox News’ Greg Gutfeld continues to crush the competition, offering a fresh alternative for millions of viewers tired of politically charged monologues from the liberal elite.
Industry insiders say Colbert’s downfall may mark the beginning of the end for traditional late-night TV as audiences increasingly turn to conservative voices and independent media.
The Bigger Picture
This stunning turn of events highlights a major cultural shift:
- Liberal shows focused on bashing Trump are losing audiences and revenue.
- Conservative programs like Gutfeld! are thriving, proving that mainstream America wants entertainment, not lectures.
- President Trump’s influence remains undeniable, even in the world of late-night comedy.
While Colbert celebrated on Emmy night, his career is facing a steep decline — and viewers are making it clear they’re ready for a new era of television.
Why This Matters
For years, Hollywood has mocked conservative values while propping up liberal hosts.
Now, the tables are turning. Colbert’s Emmy may be Hollywood’s last parting gift to a host whose show was rejected by the very audience he alienated.
Bottom line: The American people are done with woke, anti-Trump entertainment — and they’re voting with their remote controls.