Television fans were sent into a frenzy this week after rumors exploded online claiming that late-night legend Stephen Colbert had signed a staggering $13.5 million deal with Netflix for a tell-all, seven-episode event series. The supposed project, which would chronicle the untold scandals, triumphs, and behind-the-scenes battles from Colbert’s decades-long reign on American television, was said to promise “shocking revelations” that could change everything fans thought they knew about the Emmy-winning host.

But as the story gained traction across social media and partisan news sites, a closer look reveals that the claims are unsubstantiated—and likely nothing more than a viral hoax.

How the Rumor Began

The rumor originated from a sensational post on X (formerly Twitter) by @tommyboy0690, who described himself as a “lifelong Democrat” aiming “to spread the truth.” The post, which quickly racked up over 1.1 million views, 39,000 likes, and 1,700 comments, declared: “Television legend Stephen Colbert has just signed a $13.5 million deal with Netflix for a 7-episode series.”

Within hours, the story was picked up by fringe websites and amplified by political commentators, some of whom linked the alleged deal to recent political donations by Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings. Calls to cancel Netflix subscriptions began trending in some circles, fueled by speculation that the streaming giant was making a political statement by backing Colbert.

However, a fact-checking note soon appeared under the viral post, citing entertainment news sources: “There is no confirmation that Stephen Colbert has signed a deal with Netflix.” Industry outlets including Netflix Junkie reported, “There has been no confirmation of such a project, nor any indication of Colbert’s next move.”

No Evidence, Just Speculation

Despite the social media storm, neither Colbert nor Netflix have made any official announcement regarding a new series. Requests for comment sent to Colbert’s representatives and Netflix by Newsweek and other mainstream outlets have so far gone unanswered. The only recent mention of Netflix by Colbert himself came during a lighthearted on-air segment, where he joked, “Netflix, call me. I’m available in June,” referencing the impending end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

The timing of the rumor is notable, coming just weeks after CBS and Colbert announced that The Late Show would conclude in May 2026. Colbert told his studio audience, “It’s not just the end of our show, but it’s the end of The Late Show on CBS. I’m not being replaced. This is all just going away.” CBS, in a statement, called Colbert “irreplaceable” and said the decision was “purely financial,” unrelated to the show’s performance or content.

Why It Matters

Unverified claims about high-profile talent deals can have real-world consequences, from sparking consumer boycotts to influencing political discourse. In this case, the rumor was amplified by ongoing controversy surrounding CBS’s decision to end The Late Show—a move some politicians and media figures have speculated may have been motivated by politics rather than finances.

Prominent voices weighed in on the show’s cancellation. President Donald Trump celebrated the news on Truth Social, while Democratic Senators Adam Schiff and Elizabeth Warren called for transparency from CBS and its parent company, Paramount, questioning whether Colbert’s outspoken criticism of Paramount’s $16 million settlement with Trump played a role.

Meanwhile, late-night peers like Jon Stewart and Andy Cohen lamented the broader challenges facing the genre, with Stewart questioning why CBS would shutter its most successful late-night franchise rather than adapt to changing business realities.

What’s Next for Colbert and Late Night?

While the Netflix deal appears to be a fabrication, the question of Colbert’s next move remains open—and highly anticipated. With The Late Show set to end in May 2026 and the Paramount-Skydance merger looming, speculation is sure to continue. Given Colbert’s stature and creative range, many expect he will land on his feet, whether with a streaming platform, a new network venture, or something entirely different.

For now, the viral Netflix story serves as a cautionary tale about the speed at which rumors can spread—and the importance of verifying information before jumping to conclusions. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Stephen Colbert’s next chapter, whatever it may be, will be watched closely by fans, critics, and the media alike.