CBS Axes Colbert: Trump’s Victory Lap

News studio with chair desk and city backdrop

(RightWardpress.com) – A new wave of criticism from President Trump targets Stephen Colbert, reigniting debates on media bias and freedom.

Story Highlights

Trump labels Colbert a “dead man walking” and urges CBS to cancel his show.
CBS announced the cancellation of Colbert’s show amid declining ratings.
Trump’s criticism comes after Colbert mocked him on a rerun episode.
Debate ensues over media bias and freedom of expression.

Trump’s Latest Criticism of Colbert

On December 24, 2025, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to launch a scathing critique of late-night host Stephen Colbert, labeling him a “dead man walking.” Trump urged CBS to “put him to sleep,” following the network’s decision to cancel *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert* due to declining ratings. This marks a continuation of Trump’s longstanding feud with late-night hosts who have been critical of him.

Colbert’s show, which is set to end in May 2026, has faced dwindling viewership, a trend seen across late-night television. The cancellation decision came in May 2025, attributed to the show’s decreasing ratings amid a changing media landscape. This environment has been challenging for traditional TV formats, as streaming services have gained dominance.

Background of the Feud

President Trump’s animosity towards late-night hosts dates back to his first term in office. Stephen Colbert, in particular, became a target due to his show’s sharp political satire, which often criticized Trump’s policies and statements. The latest incident was triggered by a rerun of Colbert’s December 8 episode, where he mocked Trump’s comments at the Kennedy Center Honors. In response, Trump intensified his attacks, calling for greater scrutiny of media networks perceived to have an anti-Trump bias.

Trump’s call to action against Colbert and CBS is part of a broader pattern of challenging media outlets that oppose his views. He has previously suggested revoking broadcast licenses for networks he perceives as biased against him. This approach has drawn criticism from free speech advocates who argue it threatens the constitutional rights of the press.

Implications for Media and Politics

The ongoing confrontation between Trump and late-night hosts like Colbert underscores a significant cultural and political divide. While Trump’s supporters view his actions as a necessary stance against biased media, critics argue that such attacks are an attempt to stifle dissenting voices. The debate raises questions about the role of satire in political discourse and the responsibilities of media networks in a polarized society.

The cancellation of Colbert’s show is part of a broader trend affecting late-night TV, which has struggled to maintain relevance in the face of evolving viewer habits and competition from digital platforms. As the media landscape continues to shift, traditional television formats may need to adapt to sustain their audience and influence.