Stephen Colbert and late night

The conclusion of Stephen Colbert’s *The Late Show* signals a profound shift in the late-night television landscape, driven by evolving media consumption habits and corporate restructuring. NPR critic at large Eric Deggans highlights how Colbert successfully transitioned from his satirical *Colbert Report* persona to an authentic, vulnerable host who prioritized earnest engagement over traditional, confrontational interview styles. While CBS cites the difficult economics of late-night broadcasting as the primary reason for the show's end, the decision coincides with a broader industry pivot away from the political commentary that defined Colbert’s tenure. Colbert’s career trajectory remains inextricably linked to his concept of "truthiness," which accurately predicted the rise of post-factual political discourse. Ultimately, the cancellation reflects a larger decline in the influence of linear broadcast television as audiences increasingly migrate toward fragmented, digital-first content platforms.