CBS is facing backlash from fans after issuing copyright takedown notices involving a surprise appearance by Stephen Colbert shortly after the final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert aired.
The controversy began after Colbert unexpectedly appeared as a guest host on the public-access program Only in Monroe in Michigan on May 23 — just one day after ending his run on The Late Show.
Fans quickly shared clips and reposted the episode across YouTube, leading CBS to issue copyright notices against unauthorised uploads.
Stephen Colbert Returned to ‘Only in Monroe’
Stephen Colbert originally hosted Only in Monroe years before becoming one of America’s most recognised late-night television personalities.
His surprise return to the local Michigan program generated excitement online, especially among longtime fans following the end of The Late Show.
The full episode was uploaded to Colbert’s newly launched personal YouTube channel and also appeared on several fan-run channels.
CBS Sends Copyright Takedown Notices
After the episode spread online, CBS issued copyright takedown notices against channels reposting the content.
Some fans initially speculated the network was trying to suppress Colbert’s appearance following the cancellation of The Late Show.
However, CBS later clarified that the situation was related to standard copyright enforcement rather than censorship.
According to a spokesperson, CBS Studios had actually financed and produced the Only in Monroe episode in partnership with Monroe Community Media and The Late Show’s YouTube team.
CBS Responds to Fan Backlash
Following criticism online, CBS released a statement explaining its actions.
The network said it routinely sends copyright notices to websites or channels posting copyrighted content involving CBS programming and talent.
However, CBS also announced it would temporarily stop additional enforcement related to this specific episode while conducting further review.
That decision came after strong reactions from viewers who believed the network was unfairly targeting Colbert-related content.
The Late Show Ended With Record Audience
The final episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert aired on May 21 and reportedly drew the biggest weeknight audience in the show’s history.
CBS had previously announced the show’s cancellation in July, citing financial reasons behind the decision.
The end of Colbert’s late-night run marked a major moment in American television, especially after nearly a decade hosting the program.
Colbert Already Working on New Projects
Despite the end of The Late Show, Colbert has already begun discussing future creative projects.
One upcoming film project reportedly involves The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien.
The project, titled “Shadow of the Past,” is said to focus on chapters from Tolkien’s novel that were not included in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring directed by Peter Jackson.
