New York, May 22, 2026 – Former President Donald Trump wasted no time reacting to the end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, taking to Truth Social early Friday morning to sharply criticize the comedian and hail the conclusion of the long-running CBS program.
Trump posted shortly after Colbert’s final episode aired on May 21, 2026, writing:
“Colbert is finally finished at CBS. Amazing that he lasted so long! No talent, no ratings, no life. He was like a dead person. You could take any person off of the street and they would be better than this total jerk. Thank goodness he’s finally gone!”
In a follow-up message, Trump described the show’s cancellation as the “Beginning of the End” for other late-night television hosts whom he labeled as “untalented, nasty, highly overpaid, not funny, and very poorly rated.”
The Late Show wrapped up its run after approximately 11 years under Colbert, who took over the desk from David Letterman. CBS and Paramount Global reportedly cited sustained financial losses—estimated at over $40 million annually—as the primary reason for ending the program and retiring the Late Show franchise.
Colbert’s farewell episode maintained a largely celebratory and non-political tone, featuring high-profile guests including Paul McCartney and focusing on musical performances and reflections on his tenure. Notably, the host did not mention Trump during the broadcast.
The relationship between Trump and Colbert had been openly adversarial for years. Colbert frequently used his platform for sharp political satire targeting Trump, while the former president consistently criticized late-night comedy shows as biased and unfunny.
Trump’s reaction quickly drew attention across major media outlets, underscoring the enduring tension between the president and segments of the entertainment industry. The cancellation of The Late Show marks a significant shift in the late-night television landscape.
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