The Writers Guild of America is urging New York Attorney General Letitia James to investigate CBS’ decision to cancel The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, according to the Times Union. The union questions whether the show’s ending is linked to Paramount’s recent $16 million settlement with Donald Trump over a lawsuit involving 60 Minutes.
The timing raised concerns as the cancellation came days after Colbert criticized the settlement on air, calling it a “big fat bribe.” Paramount is also seeking government approval for a major merger with Skydance, leading the union to suspect political pressure played a role.
CBS maintains the move was financially driven and not tied to Colbert’s content. The Writers Guild warned that canceling shows for political reasons threatens press freedom in a democratic society.