Stephen Colbert and Jasmine Crockett Announce Bombshell New Late-Night Show

In a stunning turn of events, Stephen Colbert, the former host of CBS’s The Late Show, has announced a groundbreaking new venture just days after the shocking cancellation of his long-running program. The comedian, known for his razor-sharp wit and incisive political commentary, is teaming up with U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a rising star in the Democratic Party, to launch a revolutionary late-night television show. The announcement, made on July 23, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, promising a fresh take on the late-night format that could redefine the genre. Here’s what it takes to break into the competitive world of late-night TV in this bold new partnership.

The cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, set to conclude in May 2026, was described by CBS as a “purely financial decision” driven by the declining profitability of late-night television. The show, which has been a ratings leader for nine consecutive seasons, averaged 2.57 million viewers in 2024, but faced challenges from a shrinking linear TV audience and a 50% drop in ad revenue since 2018, from $439 million to $220 million. Despite CBS’s insistence that the decision was not tied to Colbert’s outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump or the network’s $16 million settlement with Trump over a 60 Minutes interview, speculation about political motivations has swirled, with figures like Senators Adam Schiff and Elizabeth Warren demanding transparency.

Now, Colbert is seizing the opportunity to reinvent himself and the late-night format. Partnering with Jasmine Crockett, a Texas congresswoman known for her fiery rhetoric and unapologetic advocacy, the duo aims to create a show that blends comedy, political discourse, and social activism in a way that resonates with a younger, digitally savvy audience. Crockett, who gained national attention for her viral speeches and sharp critiques of political opponents, brings a fresh perspective to the table. “This isn’t just another talk show,” Crockett said in a joint statement with Colbert. “We’re here to shake things up, speak truth to power, and connect with people who feel left out of the conversation.”

So, what does it take to launch a new late-night show in today’s fractured media landscape? First, it requires a bold vision. Colbert, a veteran of The Daily Show and The Colbert Report, has a proven track record of reinventing formats. His Colbert Report was a satirical masterpiece, parodying conservative pundits while delivering incisive commentary. However, The Late Show required him to adopt a more conventional approach, which some critics argued diluted his edge. The new show promises to recapture the subversive energy of his earlier work, with Crockett’s authenticity and grassroots appeal amplifying its impact. Their vision is to create a platform that combines humor with hard-hitting discussions, appealing to viewers who crave substance over fluff.

Second, success in late-night TV demands adaptability to new platforms. With traditional broadcast audiences dwindling, the duo is reportedly in talks with streaming giants like Netflix and YouTube, inspired by models like Piers Morgan’s Uncensored, which transitioned successfully from TV to online. The shift to streaming allows for greater creative freedom, unburdened by network constraints or advertiser pressures. “We’re not just making TV for the sake of TV,” Colbert said. “We’re building a space where people can laugh, think, and engage, whether they’re watching at 11:30 p.m. or on their phone at 2 a.m.” The show will also leverage social media, with plans for bite-sized clips designed to go viral, capitalizing on Crockett’s knack for delivering quotable zingers.

Third, a successful late-night show needs a stellar team. Colbert has emphasized his gratitude for the 200-person crew from The Late Show, many of whom are expected to join the new venture. Their experience in producing high-quality comedy and managing the logistics of a daily show will be crucial. Crockett, while new to television, brings her own network of activists and political insiders, ensuring the show has access to compelling guests and relevant topics. The collaboration promises a diverse range of voices, from grassroots organizers to A-list celebrities, all united by a commitment to addressing pressing issues like climate change, economic inequality, and democratic reform.

Finally, breaking into late-night TV requires courage to take risks. Colbert and Crockett are unafraid to tackle controversial topics, building on Colbert’s history of fearless political satire and Crockett’s reputation for calling out hypocrisy. Their show aims to fill the void left by the decline of late-night television, which has seen hosts like Trevor Noah and James Corden exit the format in recent years. By blending Colbert’s comedic prowess with Crockett’s raw, unfiltered perspective, the show could attract viewers disillusioned with traditional media’s cautious approach.

The announcement has already garnered reactions from fellow late-night hosts, with Jimmy Fallon calling it “a game-changer” and Seth Meyers expressing excitement for Colbert’s next chapter. Even President Trump weighed in on Truth Social, dismissing the venture as “doomed to fail,” a comment Colbert cheekily referenced: “If he’s against it, we must be doing something right.” As the media landscape continues to evolve, this bold partnership could herald a new era for late-night TV, proving that innovation, authenticity, and a touch of audacity are the keys to capturing the zeitgeist.