In a move that has left the entertainment and political worlds buzzing, Stephen Colbert—the legendary late-night host whose sharp wit and incisive commentary defined The Late Show for over a decade—is plotting a return that few saw coming. After CBS announced in July 2025 that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would end in May 2026, citing financial difficulties, Colbert refused to fade quietly into the background. Instead, he’s joining forces with rising political star Rep. Jasmine Crockett to launch a groundbreaking new talk show, “Unfiltered with Colbert & Crockett,” a partnership that could redefine the future of late-night television.

CBS’s Shocking Decision

CBS’s announcement to pull the plug on The Late Show sent shockwaves throughout the industry. Despite holding its own in ratings, the show was reportedly losing upwards of $40 million annually, a figure that Paramount’s TV Media Chair George Cheeks called “simply unsustainable.” While CBS maintained that the move was strictly financial, speculation swirled about whether Colbert’s outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump and other political figures played a role. Whatever the reasons, the decision marked the end of an era—and left fans and media insiders wondering what would become of Colbert, whose blend of humor and political insight had become a staple of American late-night TV.

A New Alliance: Colbert & Crockett

Enter Jasmine Crockett, the sophomore Democratic Congresswoman from Texas who has made headlines for her fiery congressional exchanges and viral social media moments. Crockett’s star has risen quickly, especially after her pointed retorts during House hearings and her ability to connect with younger audiences via platforms like TikTok and X. Her appearances on The Late Show in 2024 and 2025 showcased her quick wit and sharp political analysis, earning her a devoted following.

Now, Colbert and Crockett are teaming up for “Unfiltered with Colbert & Crockett”—a late-night experiment that’s already making waves. The first teaser, released August 1, 2025, featured Colbert’s trademark smirk alongside Crockett’s commanding presence, promising “truth, laughter, and no filter.” Within 24 hours, the clip racked up 10 million views, as fans and critics alike speculated on whether this duo could shake up the late-night landscape or flame out spectacularly.

A Teaser That Lit Up Social Media

The teaser was a masterclass in viral marketing. It opened with Colbert and Crockett trading jabs at “corporate suits who think they can silence us,” a clear reference to CBS’s decision. Social media erupted with memes, fan art, and heated debates. On X, users called the pair “the duo we didn’t know we needed,” and industry insiders began to wonder if this partnership could breathe new life into a format many considered past its prime.

While details about the show’s format remain under wraps, sources say “Unfiltered” will blend Colbert’s satirical sketches and monologues with Crockett’s unapologetic political commentary. The show is expected to feature live audience interactions, remote interviews with guests ranging from activists to musicians to everyday voters, and a social media-driven approach that leverages Crockett’s digital savvy.

Streaming Giants Enter the Fray

With the late-night audience increasingly shifting to streaming platforms, it’s no surprise that Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ are reportedly in a bidding war to host the new show. Some insiders suggest “Unfiltered” could adopt a hybrid live-streaming model, airing both on traditional TV and online to maximize reach. This approach could attract younger viewers who have abandoned network television in favor of digital content.

CBS Faces Backlash—and Uncertainty

For CBS, the announcement of “Unfiltered” is a public relations headache. The network was already facing criticism for ending The Late Show, with fans and media pundits calling it a “colossal blunder.” Now, with Colbert and Crockett poised to launch their own independent venture, CBS executives are reportedly scrambling to assess the fallout. One unnamed executive told Variety, “We underestimated the loyalty of Colbert’s audience—and the cultural capital of Jasmine Crockett.”

Ratings experts predict “Unfiltered” could siphon off a significant portion of Colbert’s former audience, especially younger viewers drawn to streaming platforms. The late-night format has been struggling, with declining viewership as audiences migrate to digital content. CBS’s decision to end The Late Show was seen as an attempt to cut losses, but Colbert and Crockett’s new project could prove that late-night isn’t dead—it’s just evolving.

High Stakes for Colbert and Crockett

The partnership is as audacious as it is risky. Colbert, a seasoned comedian with a loyal fanbase, brings credibility and experience, but his brand of liberal-leaning satire has been criticized by some as “elitist” or “out of touch.” Crockett, meanwhile, is a political firebrand whose outspokenness has made her a polarizing figure. Critics wonder whether a show so steeped in political commentary can avoid alienating viewers fatigued by partisan rhetoric.

Yet, the chemistry between Colbert and Crockett is undeniable. Their partnership reportedly began at a 2024 charity event, where a spirited debate about American discourse led to mutual respect and collaboration. Colbert describes the show as “not about left or right, but about truth versus noise,” while Crockett says it’s an extension of her political fight—“just with a bigger mic.”

The Future of Late-Night TV

As the premiere date of October 1, 2025, approaches, anticipation is building. Will “Unfiltered with Colbert & Crockett” be the revolutionary jolt that late-night television needs, or will it stumble in a fragmented media landscape? One thing is certain: Colbert and Crockett aren’t playing it safe. Their bold declaration—“We don’t need CBS’s approval anymore”—has sent a clear message: they’re ready to shake up the industry, and network executives aren’t sleeping easy.

With social media ablaze and fans eagerly awaiting the debut, the stage is set for a showdown that could redefine late-night television for years to come. Whether “Unfiltered” is a brilliant reinvention or a high-stakes gamble, Colbert and Crockett are poised to make history. The only question is whether CBS will regret letting Colbert go—or if the duo will prove that the future of television belongs to those willing to break the mold.