Jon Stewart announced he’s fighting back against the cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," declaring he won’t step down without a confrontation.
The veteran comedian made his stance clear during an impromptu press conference outside CBS headquarters. Stewart’s contract with the network runs through 2025.
“I’m not going anywhere. They’ll have to drag me out of that studio.”
CBS executives confirmed earlier this week they’re ending Colbert’s run after eight years. The show averaged 2.1 million viewers this season, down from its 2.8 million peak in 2017.
Stewart has served as executive producer on the program since its launch. He’s also made regular guest appearances throughout Colbert’s tenure.
The network plans to replace the late-night slot with a news magazine format.
Stewart built his reputation during 16 years hosting "The Daily Show" on Comedy Central. He left that program in 2015 but returned to television in 2021 with Apple TV+‘s "The Problem with Jon Stewart."
Industry sources suggest Stewart’s contract includes provisions that could complicate CBS’s transition plans. The comedian earned $25 million annually for his producer role on Colbert’s show.
Network officials haven’t responded to requests for comment.
Stewart’s legal team is reviewing options for challenging the cancellation. They’re focusing on contract language regarding creative control and show duration.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between traditional networks and veteran television personalities. Several late-night hosts have faced similar battles over creative direction in recent years.
Colbert himself hasn’t publicly commented on Stewart’s declaration.