Stephen Colbert wins five Emmys following The Late Show cancellation

Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show has won five Emmy Awards during the 78th Emmy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The program received honors for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series, Directing for a Variety Series, Picture Editing for Variety Programming, Lighting Design, and Technical Direction and Camerawork. Additionally, the show’s digital companion, Colbert Before Air, earned a sixth Emmy.

The awards follow the conclusion of the long-running series, which CBS ended after the 2025-26 season. While CBS cited financial reasons for the cancellation, the decision occurred amid controversy regarding a settlement between Paramount and Donald Trump.

In a related event, former writers from The Late Show held a comedy reunion at WeHo Bistro in Los Angeles. The performance took place under the show’s original sign, which was purchased at auction for $102,100. Proceeds from the sign's sale were donated to World Central Kitchen.