Stephen Colbert appeared to take one last swipe at CBS during his final episode of The Late Show.
The longtime host wrapped up his final show with a star-studded lineup that included Paul McCartney, Ryan Reynolds, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers.
Opening the farewell episode, Stephen Colbert thanked viewers for more than a decade together.
“We love doing this show for you, but we really, really love doing the show with you,” he told the audience.
But it was a moment later in the show that sparked the strongest reaction online.
Colbert’s final joke caught attention
During his regular “Meanwhile” segment, Colbert discussed a copyright lawsuit involving the use of Peanuts music.
“Anyone illegally using that music is going to have to pay through the nose,” he joked.
Moments later, the show’s house band suddenly began playing the famous Peanuts theme, and a surprised Colbert turned toward the band.
“Louis? Are you really playing the same Peanuts music that I just said people were being sued for using without permission?”
Then came the line that many viewers interpreted as a final jab at CBS. Looking directly toward the camera, Colbert smirked and added:
“Oh no, I hope this doesn’t cost CBS any money…”
The remark quickly exploded online.
One viewer wrote on X:
“Colbert billing CBS with the Peanuts theme on his way out is elite pettiness.”
Tension with CBS drew attention
The moment came months after CBS announced that The Late Show would end. The network described the move as a financial decision made during a difficult period for late-night television.
The cancellation drew renewed attention after Colbert openly criticized Paramount, CBS’ parent company, over its reported $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump connected to a dispute involving 60 Minutes.
Colbert previously called the payment a ‘big fat bribe’, according to The Guardian.
CBS later insisted the decision to end The Late Show had nothing to do with Colbert’s content or political commentary.
“This is purely a financial decision against a challenging backdrop in late night,” the network said in a statement.
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