View gallery

Stephen Colbert has firmly established himself as a powerhouse in the world of late-night comedy, captivating audiences with his sharp wit and insightful commentary. Since taking the helm of The Late Show at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City in 2015, Colbert has seen his salary and net worth become hot topics of discussion among fans and media alike. Recently, as rumors of the show’s cancellation circulate, many fans have expressed their disappointment, accusing CBS and its parent company, Paramount Global, of abandoning their loyal viewer base, especially following a controversial $16 million settlement involving Donald Trump.

On July 17, 2025, Stephen shared the shocking news with his audience, stating, “It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of The Late Show on CBS.” He emphasized that he would not be replaced, indicating that this was a permanent closure rather than a temporary hiatus. Colbert expressed his appreciation for CBS, acknowledging the network as “great partners,” despite the disheartening news of the show’s termination. His heartfelt message resonated with fans who have followed him throughout his tenure.

In a touching moment, Stephen expressed his “deep gratitude” for the 200 staff members who have contributed to The Late Show over the years. He voiced a wish that someone else could take over the show and carry on its legacy, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has defined the program. This sentiment illustrates Colbert’s commitment not just to the show, but to the team that has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make it a success.

For those curious about the financial aspects, delve deeper to discover the specifics of how much money Stephen is making at CBS, along with insightful details surrounding the cancellation of The Late Show.

What Is Stephen Colbert’s Current Net Worth?

As of August 2025, Stephen Colbert’s estimated net worth stands at an impressive $75 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This substantial fortune reflects not only his successful career in comedy but also his savvy investments and business ventures outside of The Late Show. Colbert’s financial acumen, combined with his ability to remain relevant in the fast-paced entertainment industry, has solidified his place as a prominent figure in the world of late-night television.

What Is Stephen Colbert’s Salary for Hosting The Late Show?

Reports indicate that Stephen Colbert commands a remarkable annual salary of $15 million for his role as the host of The Late Show. This figure places him among the highest-paid figures in late-night entertainment, showcasing his value and appeal as a comedic talent. Colbert’s ability to engage with diverse audiences and tackle pressing issues with humor has undoubtedly contributed to his lucrative salary, reflecting both his popularity and the show’s enduring success.

Why Was The Late Show With Stephen Colbert Canceled?

The executives at CBS characterized the cancellation of The Late Show as a “financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” implying that the move was not a reflection of the show’s performance or content. This statement raised eyebrows among viewers who know that The Late Show has consistently been a leader in late-night ratings, often outperforming competitors for nine consecutive seasons. The decision has sparked discussions about the future of late-night programming and the factors influencing network decisions.

Despite CBS’s assertions, the choice to cancel the show has been met with skepticism. According to CBS News, the network has acknowledged that The Late Show has maintained its position as the number one program in late-night comedy for several years. This contradiction between the network’s financial reasoning and the show’s performance has led many to question the motivations behind the cancellation, stirring debate among fans and industry insiders.

In a statement reflecting their mixed emotions, CBS expressed, “Our admiration, affection, and respect for the talents of Stephen Colbert and his incredible team made this agonizing decision even more difficult.” The network indicated their commitment to honoring Colbert and the show’s legacy over the next ten months, recognizing the profound impact The Late Show has had on the late-night landscape and its devoted fan base.

Colbert shared his reflections, stating, “I’ve had the pleasure and the responsibility of sharing what we do every day with you in front of this camera for the last 10 years. It is a fantastic job. I wish somebody else was getting it. It’s a job that I’m looking forward to doing with this usual gang of idiots for another 10 months.” His words resonate with fans who appreciate both his humor and his sincerity as he prepares to say goodbye to a show that has defined his career.