Big changes are coming to Midtown Manhattan. CBS has officially cancelled The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, ending a major chapter in New York’s late-night history. Filmed at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater in the heart of Manhattan, the show wasn’t just entertainment—it was part of the city’s cultural identity. Here’s what we know, how it could impact the city, and what might come next.
Why Was The Late Show Cancelled?
While CBS hasn’t made a full statement yet, industry insiders point to changing viewer habits, budget cuts and shifting priorities within the network. Even though Colbert consistently topped ratings among late-night hosts, the format itself has been struggling. The audience that once tuned in at 11:30 PM now gets their laughs on TikTok, YouTube or podcasts.
Ed Sullivan Theater – A Manhattan Landmark at the Center of It All
For locals and tourists alike, the Ed Sullivan Theater has always been a magnet. Located on Broadway between West 53rd and 54th Streets, the historic venue has hosted everything from Elvis and The Beatles to Letterman and Colbert. Losing The Late Show means more than just fewer celebrity sightings—it’s a shakeup for Midtown’s cultural rhythm.
What Happens to the Ed Sullivan Theater Now?
This is the big question. CBS hasn’t announced what will replace The Late Show—if anything. The theater is landmarked and deeply tied to the network, so it’s unlikely to stay dark for long. Some say a streaming production could move in. Others wonder if the space could shift to live events or even audience-free formats.
The Local Impact: Jobs, Tourism, Business
As reported by Gotahmist, New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office confirmed that CBS’ sudden decision to cancel The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will result in the loss of hundreds of local jobs—just under ten years after the state invested $16 million to keep the production in New York City.
The impact goes far beyond the show itself. The cancellation affects a wide range of local workers, including stage crews, security personnel, food vendors and staff from surrounding businesses. The show’s regular tapings brought steady foot traffic to nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars—supporting a Midtown economy built on entertainment and tourism. For New York, that loss is significant.
What New Yorkers Are Saying
The cancellation sparked strong reactions across the industry and online. Jimmy Kimmel voiced support for Colbert while slamming CBS, saying, “Love you, Stephen. F*** you and all your Sheldons, CBS.”
Fans and critics also blasted the network, with petitions emerging to bring the show back. Despite being the top-rated show in its slot, The Late Show was reportedly losing money due to high production costs, declining ad revenue, and digital competition.
What’s Next for Late-Night in NYC?
New York still has shows like Saturday Night Live and The Daily Show, so late-night TV isn’t gone. But with The Late Show ending, things are changing. Will CBS try a new kind of show? Will someone else take over the theater? Or is the old late-night format just not working anymore?
The show might be over, but New York keeps moving. The city always finds something new—whether it’s a different kind of show or a new use for the theater. We’ll have to wait and see what’s next.
If you’re in Midtown this week, swing by the Ed Sullivan Theater. The marquee’s still up, and fans are gathering. It’s one of those only in New York moments you’ll want to see.
For more NYC updates—from Broadway shifts to street-level stories—keep checking in at Nova Cadeau. We cover New York the way real New Yorkers live it.
