CBS experienced a notable disappointment at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards when The Late Show with Stephen Colbert failed to secure the coveted Best Talk Show award. The ceremony, held on January 15, 2026, saw Stephen Colbert nominated alongside prominent competitors including Late Night With Seth Meyers, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Daily Show, and Hot Ones. Ultimately, Jimmy Kimmel took home the award, marking a significant moment in a year that has been tumultuous for his show due to a temporary suspension.
Colbert’s absence at the awards ceremony was notable and seemingly anticipated. His decision not to attend was playfully referenced by Kimmel during his acceptance speech. Kimmel remarked that Colbert and his fellow nominees “did not care enough to be here with you tonight,” adding a light-hearted jab that indicated the competitive atmosphere of late-night television.
This year’s Critics’ Choice Awards come at a pivotal moment for CBS, which is undergoing significant changes. The network has announced new reporting guidelines for 2026, a move that some critics have labeled as “state propaganda.” This has raised concerns among observers regarding the future direction of the network and its programming.
Colbert’s show, which premiered in September 2015, has enjoyed considerable success over the past decade. However, CBS revealed in July 2025 that The Late Show would conclude in May 2026, attributing the decision to financial considerations. Many speculate that this cancellation is linked to the host’s outspoken criticisms of former President Donald Trump, especially in light of Trump’s lawsuit against CBS, which he filed in November 2024 over a 60 Minutes segment that he claimed constituted “election interference.”
Colbert shared his thoughts on the end of his show with GQ, stating, “Listen, every show’s got to end at some time… That’s just the nature of show business.” He reflected on the unpredictable nature of the industry, noting, “You can’t worry about that. You got to be a big boy about that.” His comments reflect a resignation to the realities of television, even as his fans express disappointment.
While Colbert missed the opportunity to address Trump directly during a potential acceptance speech, Kimmel seized the moment. He humorously acknowledged the current political landscape, thanking Trump for his “many ridiculous things” that provide fodder for late-night comedy. As Kimmel put it, “It’s been a banner couple of weeks, and we can’t wait to get back on the air tomorrow night to talk about them.”
The outcome of the Critics’ Choice Awards highlights the competitive nature of late-night television and the various challenges faced by networks like CBS. As the industry continues to evolve, the fate of The Late Show and its legacy remains a topic of significant interest among viewers and critics alike.
