Stephen Colbert Wins Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series Amid Show’s Cancellation

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Series on September 14, 2025, during the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards held at the Ovation Theater in Los Angeles. This recognition comes shortly after CBS announced the show’s cancellation on July 17, 2025, raising eyebrows and sparking discussions online.

Colbert’s presence at the awards was marked by a standing ovation from the audience, reflecting his impact on the late-night television landscape. When presenting an award, he humorously acknowledged his show’s impending end, which added an emotional layer to the evening. Following the win, he received yet another standing ovation, affirming his popularity despite the show’s conclusion.

Online reactions varied. Some users expressed disbelief over Colbert’s win given the show’s cancellation, while others celebrated the achievement, recognizing the significance of his 11th Emmy win out of 44 nominations over the years. One user on X (formerly Twitter) noted the irony of the situation, commenting, “Didn’t he just get cancelled?”

As Colbert prepares for the final episode of The Late Show, scheduled for May 2026, his acceptance speech reflected on his journey since taking over the program in 2015. He remarked on the challenges and triumphs, noting, “This show has meant so much to me and to our audience.”

The cancellation of The Late Show has not been without controversy. It coincided with significant corporate developments at CBS’s parent company, Paramount, which recently merged with Skydance Media. This merger included a settlement with former President Donald Trump, who has been a frequent target of Colbert’s satire. Trump posted a reaction on his Truth Social account, indicating the ongoing tensions between the two.

The cultural impact of Colbert’s show over its tenure cannot be understated. It has provided a platform for critical commentary on political issues and has featured numerous high-profile guests, including Trump himself in 2015. As the show approaches its finale, fans are left to reflect on its legacy within the realm of late-night television.

Despite the mixed sentiments surrounding the cancellation, Colbert’s Emmy win signals a successful run that will be remembered for its sharp wit and engaging content. The upcoming final episodes are expected to garner significant attention as fans look forward to how the host will wrap up his nearly eleven-year tenure.