CBS is reshaping its late-night lineup as Stephen Colbert prepares to sign off. After more than a decade fronting one of TV’s biggest shows, the network has locked in what comes next for its iconic time slot.
Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show replacement revealed by CBS
CBS confirmed that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will officially end in May 2026, closing a franchise that has run for over 30 years. The night after Colbert’s final episode on May 22, the 11.35 p.m. slot will switch to Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen. The late-night block will continue with Funny You Should Ask at 12:35 a.m., creating a full comedy-focused lineup.
The new setup is led by Byron Allen, who has been running Comics Unleashed since 2006. The show features comedians in a roundtable format, with past guests including Tiffany Haddish and Cedric the Entertainer. Allen said he built the series to give comics a platform and added that he appreciates CBS backing this two-hour comedy block.
“I created and launched Comics Unleashed 20 years ago so my fellow comedians could have a platform to do what we all love — make people laugh,” Allen continued, “I truly appreciate CBS’ confidence in me by picking up our two-hour comedy block of Comics Unleashed and Funny You Should Ask, because the world can never have enough laughter” (via EW).
Interestingly, this deal works differently from a traditional network show. Allen’s company is reportedly buying airtime from CBS and handling ad sales itself (via The Hollywood Reporter). That business model gives his team more control, while also helping the network fill a major slot after ending its long-running franchise. CBS previously described the cancellation as a financial decision, not related to ratings or content.
Colbert addressed the news during a taping, explaining that this isn’t a standard host swap. He told the audience, “I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away,” confirming the show’s legacy will end with him. Despite the disappointment, he said he plans to enjoy the final months with his team.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
