David Letterman launched a scathing attack on CBS, calling network executives "lying weasels" over their decision to cancel Stephen Colbert's "Late Show." The iconic late-night host defended his successor in an interview with The New York Times, rejecting the network's official explanation that cancellation stemmed from financial considerations.

CBS announced in July 2025 that "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert" would end later that month, terminating one of television's most prestigious franchises. The network cited budget constraints as justification for the move. Letterman, who hosted "The Late Show" for 33 years before Colbert took over in 2015, disputed that framing entirely.

Colbert's show has remained a ratings powerhouse and cultural touchstone throughout his tenure, consistently winning the late-night ratings race and earning critical acclaim. The program has produced countless viral moments, A-list interviews, and political commentary that resonated with viewers during tumultuous news cycles. Losing it represents a significant blow to CBS's entertainment portfolio and the broader late-night ecosystem.

Letterman's intervention carries weight in industry conversations. His decades-long tenure made "The Late Show" appointment a marquee decision, and his public rebuke suggests CBS's reasoning doesn't align with the show's actual performance metrics or cultural value. Network executives routinely cite financial pressures when making programming decisions, but established hits typically generate enough revenue through advertising and affiliate fees to justify renewal.

The cancellation marks another contraction in traditional broadcast television's late-night offerings. With legacy networks like CBS trimming premium content, streaming services and digital platforms continue absorbing advertising dollars that once supported network television. Colbert's exit removes one of the few remaining appointment-television programs that consistently compete with cable and streaming alternatives.

Letterman's willingness to publicly call out CBS executives reflects broader industry frustration