Stephen Colbert opens up about the sudden cancellation of The Late Show, reflecting on his struggles with anxiety, past nervous breakdowns, and coping mechanisms, expressing both sadness over the ending and excitement for a bold, uncertain next chapter in his career.

Stephen Colbert, the 60-year-old late-night icon, spoke candidly about the end of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and his plans for the future in a revealing interview for GQ’s ‘Men of the Year’ issue.

The veteran host, who has been at the helm of CBS’s flagship late-night program since 2015, described the moment he learned the show was being canceled as “utterly surreal.

” According to Colbert, the news came in early September 2025, through a phone call at his Manhattan apartment, and it left him grappling with a mix of shock, sadness, and a strange sense of liberation.

“There’s no perfect way to hear something like that,” he admitted.

“It was like being told your home, where you’ve lived and built something meaningful, is being taken away overnight.”

Despite the unexpected news, Colbert emphasized that his immediate focus is on concluding the show “gracefully.

” “I want the final episodes to honor not just the audience, but every crew member, writer, and producer who poured their heart into this show for over a decade,” he said.

While the network has kept specific plans for the finale under wraps, insiders indicate that Colbert is planning special surprise guests and segments that pay homage to some of the show’s most memorable moments.

“It’s about celebrating the energy, humor, and honesty that we’ve shared every night,” he added.

When discussing his next steps, Colbert hinted at exploring a wide range of creative ventures, including more scripted comedy, political storytelling, or even directing.

“I’ve always been curious about what else I could do in this space,” he explained.

“This is a chance to challenge myself in ways I haven’t before, and I’m excited about the possibilities.

” Colbert’s comments suggest that he is open to redefining his career in ways that extend beyond traditional late-night television.

The interview also delved into Colbert’s personal history, providing an unusually intimate glimpse into the struggles that have shaped him.

He spoke openly about battling anxiety during his younger years, noting that the pressures of public life and performing often became overwhelming.

“There were times when I didn’t know how to cope,” he revealed.

Colbert admitted experimenting with marijuana as a coping mechanism but acknowledged that these methods were temporary solutions.

He also recounted experiencing a nervous breakdown, which served as a turning point in his approach to both life and work.

“It was a wake-up call,” he said.

“I realized I couldn’t keep pushing myself without taking care of my mind and body.

That moment changed everything for me.”

Family and personal relationships have played a critical role in Colbert’s resilience.

He has been married to actress and producer Evelyn McGee-Colbert for more than twenty years, often citing her steady support as a grounding force throughout his career.

The comedian reflected that both his marriage and professional collaborations have been vital in helping him navigate the highs and lows of public life, from early days on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to his decade-long run on CBS.

“Every stage has taught me something,” Colbert said.

“The successes, the failures, the moments that scared me—they all shaped who I am today.”

Colbert’s reflections highlight not just the conclusion of an era in late-night television but also the enduring spirit of creativity and reinvention.

The sudden cancellation of The Late Show has created a poignant moment of transition, but Colbert’s focus on both a meaningful ending and ambitious future plans demonstrates his resilience and drive.

“I see this not just as an ending, but as an opportunity to explore new stories, formats, and ways to connect with people,” he explained.

“There’s a lot more I want to do, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”

Fans of The Late Show can expect the final episodes to be rich with nostalgia, emotional reflections, and perhaps even hints at what Colbert might do next.

With a career spanning decades, marked by sharp political commentary, incisive humor, and a commitment to authenticity, Colbert’s next chapter promises to be as compelling as the one he is closing.

His journey from a young correspondent struggling with anxiety to a late-night icon grappling with career upheaval underscores a story of resilience, creativity, and relentless curiosity.

As Colbert prepares to sign off from CBS, the public is left to wonder what bold, unexpected paths he will take next.

While details remain sparse, the comedian’s openness about his personal challenges and professional aspirations ensures that whatever comes next will be both deeply personal and widely anticipated.

For now, the world watches and waits as Stephen Colbert steps into the next chapter of his extraordinary career, proving once again that even in moments of upheaval, opportunity—and reinvention—awaits.