CBS experienced a notable setback at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards when The Late Show with Stephen Colbert failed to secure a win in the highly competitive Best Talk Show category. The show, which garnered a nomination, faced stiff competition from other prominent programs, including Late Night With Seth Meyers, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Daily Show, and YouTube’s Hot Ones. Ultimately, Jimmy Kimmel‘s program triumphed, marking a significant moment in a year that has been tumultuous for him, as his show had previously faced a temporary suspension.
This particular loss for CBS comes at a time when the network has announced intentions to implement significant changes in the upcoming year. CBS is set to introduce five new reporting guidelines for 2026, a move that has drawn criticism and been labeled by some as “state propaganda.” The 61-year-old host, Stephen Colbert, seemingly anticipated the disappointment, opting not to attend the ceremony, a decision that Kimmel humorously referenced during his acceptance speech.
At the awards event, Kimmel quipped that his fellow contestants “did not care enough to be here with you tonight,” adding a light-hearted jab about being the “only one left.” Despite the competitive atmosphere, Kimmel made sure to acknowledge Sean Evans from Hot Ones, who was present in the audience and visibly amused by the remarks.
This rejection could represent a pivotal moment for Colbert, as The Late Show is scheduled to conclude in May 2026. CBS announced the cancellation in July 2025, citing financial constraints as the primary reason for the decision. Despite the impending end of his show, Colbert has enjoyed a highly successful run since its launch in September 2015, consistently ranking among the top late-night programs.
Reflecting on the end of his show during an interview with GQ, Colbert stated, “Listen, every show’s got to end at some time. And I’ve been on a bunch of shows that have ended sometimes by our lights and sometimes by the decision of other people. That’s just the nature of show business.” He also humorously noted, “I think we’re the first number one show to ever get canceled.”
The cancellation of Colbert’s show has sparked speculation regarding a potential move towards censorship, particularly in light of his vocal criticisms of former President Donald Trump. This speculation intensified following a lawsuit filed by Trump against CBS in November 2024, claiming a 60 Minutes segment constituted “election interference.” Although Colbert missed the opportunity to address Trump directly had he won the award, Kimmel did not shy away from making his own comments.
In his acceptance speech, Kimmel remarked, “Most of all, I wanna thank our president, Donald Jennifer Trump. Without whom, we’d be going home empty-handed tonight. So thank you, Mr. President for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day.” His remarks emphasized the ongoing comedic landscape shaped by Trump’s presidency and its influence on late-night television.
As CBS navigates these challenges, the fate of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert serves as a reflection of the evolving dynamics in the television industry, particularly as networks adapt to changing viewer preferences and financial realities.
