With CBS announcing that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will come to an end in May 2026, attention has turned to the career and earnings of one of late night’s most iconic hosts.
The network confirmed Thursday that not only will Colbert’s show be canceled, but the entire Late Show franchise is being retired after decades on air.
Stephen Colbert’s Net Worth
Despite the upcoming end of his show, Colbert’s financial success is already well secured. According to CelebrityNetWorth.com, the comedian, writer, and satirist has amassed an estimated net worth of $75 million.
Colbert’s rise began as a correspondent on The Daily Show, but he became a household name through The Colbert Report — a Comedy Central staple from 2005 to 2014 — before taking over The Late Show in 2015.
Stephen Colbert’s Salary at CBS
Colbert started his tenure at CBS earning around $6 million per year. But by October 2019, following strong ratings and a contract renewal, his annual salary jumped to $15 million. He signed a multi-year extension in 2023, ensuring he’d remain with the network through at least 2026 — the same year the show will now wrap.
A Legacy in Late-Night Satire
Known for his sharp wit and political humor, Colbert became one of the most influential figures in late-night television. His unique blend of comedy and commentary attracted a loyal viewership and reshaped the genre during a turbulent political era.
CBS praised Colbert as “irreplaceable” in its announcement, saying his contributions would be remembered “in the pantheon of greats that graced late night television.”
