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CBS has identified a successor to carry its late night programming forward following the end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
After the program broadcasts its final episode on May 21, the network will shift its 11:35 p.m. time slot to Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen starting May 22, according to an April 6 press release. The move comes as Colbert concludes a decade-long run as host of the long running late night franchise on CBS.
Following the transition, Comics Unleashed will anchor the earlier late night block, with Byron Allen's additional program, Funny You Should Ask, continuing as part of the network's lineup. Both shows are already part of CBS's overnight schedule and will now expand into the earlier time slot once Colbert's show ends.
The change marks the close of an era for CBS viewers, as the network had previously announced the cancellation of Late Show in July 2025 after a 33 year run. While audiences have expressed nostalgia and disappointment at the end of the program, Allen has emphasized his commitment to maintaining a strong comedic presence for viewers during late night hours.
In a statement, Allen noted that Comics Unleashed was created two decades ago to give comedians a platform to showcase their work. He expressed appreciation for CBS's decision to highlight both Comics Unleashed and Funny You Should Ask as part of a two hour comedy block, adding that there is always room for more humor in late night television.
Meanwhile, Colbert is preparing for new opportunities beyond hosting. The 61 year old is set to take on a creative role in a new film project connected to the world of The Lord of the Rings. Director Peter Jackson revealed that Colbert will help develop a script for an upcoming installment in the franchise.
Colbert has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, noting his long standing admiration for both the original literary works and the film adaptations. He shared that his involvement will focus on exploring story elements from sections of the first book that were not previously adapted on screen, describing the material as something that could stand on its own while still fitting into the broader narrative.
Although he is moving into new creative territory, Colbert has acknowledged the emotional weight of stepping away from his late night role. He has thanked viewers, his production team, and colleagues for their support throughout his time on the show, reflecting on the shared experience of building a nightly program over many years.
