Jon Stewart’s monologue on “The Daily Show” aired on July 21, 2025, where he criticized CBS and Paramount Global following the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” The segment included strong language and concluded with Stewart leading a gospel choir in a message directed at media companies.
The host detailed his connection with Colbert, noting their six-year collaboration on “The Daily Show” before Colbert launched “The Colbert Report” in 2005 and later took over CBS’ “Late Show” in 2015. Stewart commended Colbert for his achievements, highlighting his rise to the top of the late-night television ratings.
Stewart questioned the network’s rationale for the cancellation, which CBS attributed to financial reasons. He referenced Paramount’s impending $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media, which awaits FCC approval. Stewart implied a possible link between the cancellation and efforts to placate President Donald Trump, following Paramount’s $16 million settlement of a defamation lawsuit with Trump over a “60 Minutes” interview with former presidential candidate Kamala Harris.
In his remarks, Stewart acknowledged the financial challenges facing late-night television, comparing it to outdated business models. However, he argued that shows like Colbert’s have significantly contributed to Paramount’s value, which now seems to be protected through cancellations.
Stewart suggested that the cancellation is rooted in what he described as a climate of fear within American institutions, where corporations aim to avoid conflicts with the Trump administration. He warned that such strategies would not protect them from scrutiny.
He cited Trump’s recent lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch, owner of Fox News, as an example that supportive media outlets are not immune to presidential criticism. Stewart noted that despite Fox News’s favorable coverage, Trump still pursued legal action against Murdoch.
Stewart asserted his resistance to corporate influences, stating, “I’m not giving in, I’m not going anywhere,” though he expressed uncertainty about the future of his own show under new ownership.
CBS announced the decision to end “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” after the current season, citing financial considerations as the reason. The network emphasized Colbert’s irreplaceability and decided to retire the “Late Show” franchise.
The financial justification for the cancellation has been questioned by industry analysts, given the show’s leading position in the ratings. The timing of the decision, following Colbert’s criticism of Paramount’s settlement with Trump, has raised speculation about political motivations.
Stewart and Colbert have a longstanding professional relationship, with Stewart acting as an executive producer on “The Late Show.” Both are managed by James “Baby Doll” Dixon, who also serves as an executive producer for both shows. Their partnership began in 1997 when Colbert joined “The Daily Show” as a correspondent.
Concerns about the future of late-night programming extend beyond Colbert’s show. Stewart previously expressed doubts about “The Daily Show’s” future under Skydance ownership during a recent podcast. He suggested that new owners might consider selling Comedy Central, although the network relies heavily on “The Daily Show” and “South Park” for content.
Despite the changes, Comedy Central recently announced that Josh Johnson joined the rotating host lineup for “The Daily Show.” Johnson, a writer for the program since 2017, co-hosted a recent episode alongside Ronny Chieng, Jordan Klepper, Michael Kosta, and Desi Lydic, while Stewart continues hosting on Mondays.
Stewart’s candid monologue on “The Daily Show” highlighted the ongoing tensions between satire, media influence, and corporate strategies. By openly criticizing Paramount’s actions regarding Colbert and expressing concerns about the potential consequences for truth-telling in media, Stewart emphasized the importance of standing firm against external pressures.
