The union that advocates for musicians involved with The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has come forward to condemn CBS for shutting down the program, eagerly urging other networks to speak out and not let themselves be bullied.
Robert Suttmann, the President of Local 802 American Federation of Musicians, expressed with strong words that, “Courage is needed now more than ever, not fear.”
The news broke that CBS would stop production of Colbert this coming May. While the network claims it’s just a financial decision, many, including Colbert himself and various fellow late-night hosts, suspect that the recent, high-stakes merger between CBS’s parent company Paramount and Skydance might be influencing the decision to cut Colbert. This comes right after CBS resolved a contentious lawsuit from Donald Trump over 60 Minutes, which several legal experts labeled as unsubstantiated.
This cancellation hasn’t only sparked reaction from the comedy community; there’s also been a wave of protest from those who believe in the freedom of expression. Local 802 is now adding their voice to the rising tide of dissent.
In his statement, Suttmann raised important concerns about the implications of the cancellation on free expression and artistic liberty, mentioning:
“The surprise cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert without a clear reason raises significant concerns about the implications for free speech and artistic independence. Live music has long played a key role in late-night shows, allowing musicians a crucial platform to connect with audiences, showcase their talents, and participate in cultural discussions. Eliminating Colbert jeopardizes not just the livelihoods of vibrant artists but also infringes on the core principles of free expression—principles that our industry and nation hold dear.”
Suttmann continued by highlighting serious remarks made by the President of the United States, indicating he might have influenced the cancellation and warning other networks like NBC and ABC of potentially facing similar pressures.
He concluded with a rallying call: “Now’s the time for networks to boldly declare their independence from intimidation. This isn’t just about a talk show—it’s about what we stand for as a nation when an administration attempts to stifle criticism and free speech. We must unite against such attempts at censorship.”
Local 802 stands strong for its members, promising to take necessary measures to defend the rights of those involved in The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
