SHOCKING TWIST: Stephen Colbert and Jasmine Crockett Team Up for Bombshell New Late-Night Show
In a stunning turn of events, Stephen Colbert, the veteran late-night host whose CBS program The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was abruptly canceled in July 2025, has announced a groundbreaking new venture. Partnering with U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a rising star in American politics known for her sharp wit and fearless commentary, Colbert is set to launch a revolutionary late-night show that promises to redefine the genre. The cancellation of The Late Show, a 33-year institution, sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with CBS citing financial pressures in a declining linear TV landscape. Now, Colbert and Crockett are seizing the moment to create a bold, satirical, and politically charged program that could reshape late-night television for a new era.
The announcement of The Late Show’s cancellation on July 18, 2025, came as a surprise to fans and industry insiders alike. Despite its consistent ratings leadership, averaging 2.57 million viewers in 2024, CBS stated the decision was “purely financial,” driven by a 50% drop in late-night ad revenue since 2018, from $439 million to $220 million. Speculation swirled about political motivations, particularly given Colbert’s vocal criticism of President Donald Trump and his recent remarks about CBS’s parent company, Paramount, settling a $16 million lawsuit with Trump over a 60 Minutes interview. Democratic Senators Adam Schiff and Elizabeth Warren raised concerns about potential political pressure, though CBS denied any connection.
Colbert, however, is not one to retreat. Known for his incisive humor and quick adaptability, he has spent a decade honing his craft on The Late Show, building on his earlier success with The Colbert Report. His ability to blend sharp political satire with engaging interviews made him a standout in a struggling late-night landscape. Now, teaming up with Jasmine Crockett, a Texas congresswoman celebrated for her viral takedowns and charismatic presence, Colbert is poised to break new ground. Crockett, a former civil rights attorney, has gained national attention for her bold rhetoric, including a memorable 2024 House Oversight Committee moment where she coined the phrase “bleach blonde, bad-built butch body” in a heated exchange. Her unapologetic style and ability to connect with younger, diverse audiences make her an ideal partner for Colbert’s next chapter.
The new show, tentatively titled Colbert & Crockett: After Hours, is set to launch in September 2026 on a yet-to-be-announced streaming platform, a move that reflects the industry’s shift away from traditional broadcast television. Unlike the conventional late-night format, this program will lean heavily into political satire, cultural commentary, and unfiltered conversations, targeting a digital-savvy audience. “We’re not just here to make you laugh,” Colbert said in a statement. “We’re here to cut through the noise, call out the absurd, and maybe—just maybe—help people think a little harder about the world we’re in.” Crockett echoed this sentiment, adding, “Stephen and I are ready to shake things up. This isn’t your grandma’s late-night show—it’s a wake-up call.”
What does it take to succeed in late-night TV in 2026? First, adaptability is key. The genre has been in decline, with viewership plummeting since the pandemic and streaming overtaking traditional TV as the primary entertainment medium. Colbert’s decision to move to streaming aligns with this trend, following the path of shows like Piers Morgan’s Uncensored, which transitioned successfully to YouTube. Second, authenticity resonates. Crockett’s raw, unscripted energy complements Colbert’s polished comedic expertise, creating a dynamic that feels fresh yet authoritative. Their chemistry promises to blend humor with hard-hitting truths, appealing to viewers tired of sanitized network fare.
Third, relevance is non-negotiable. Late-night shows have struggled to maintain cultural significance, often criticized for “clapter”—jokes that elicit agreement rather than genuine laughter. Colbert and Crockett aim to avoid this trap by tackling divisive issues head-on, using Crockett’s political insider perspective and Colbert’s satirical lens to spark conversation. Their show will feature a mix of celebrity guests, policy experts, and grassroots activists, ensuring a broad appeal. Finally, digital integration is essential. The duo plans to leverage social media platforms like X to engage audiences in real-time, sharing clips and fostering debates that extend beyond the broadcast.
The partnership has already generated buzz, with fellow late-night hosts like Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver expressing excitement for Colbert’s next move. Meanwhile, Trump took to Truth Social to claim credit for Colbert’s “firing,” a narrative the comedian dismissed with a quip: “If he thinks he’s getting rid of me, he’s got another thing coming.” Fans have launched petitions to reverse The Late Show’s cancellation, but Colbert seems energized by the new venture.
As the media landscape evolves, Colbert & Crockett: After Hours could mark a turning point for late-night TV. By combining Colbert’s comedic legacy with Crockett’s fearless voice, the show promises to be a cultural force—provocative, unapologetic, and undeniably relevant. With ten months until launch, anticipation is building for what could be the most talked-about show of the decade.
