Stephen Colbert opens up about the sudden cancellation of The Late Show, reflecting on his struggles with anxiety and past breakdowns, expressing sadness over the ending but hope and excitement for his next creative chapter.

In a candid and deeply personal interview with GQ for their ‘Men of the Year’ issue, Stephen Colbert revealed the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and offered insight into his future ambitions, while reflecting on some of the challenges he has faced throughout his life.

Colbert, 60, who has hosted the late-night program on CBS since 2015, recounted how he first learned of the network’s decision to end the long-running show.

“I was blindsided, to be honest,” he said, describing a phone call he received in early September 2025 while at home in New York City.

“There’s no perfect way to hear something like that.

It’s a surreal moment when you realize the chapter you’ve dedicated a decade to is coming to a close.”

The comedian explained that his immediate priority is to ensure the show concludes gracefully.

“It’s important to me to honor the audience, the crew, and everyone who’s poured their hearts into this show,” Colbert said.

“I want the final episodes to reflect the energy and love that went into every single broadcast.

” While details about the finale are being kept under wraps, insiders suggest Colbert is planning a series of special segments and surprise appearances from celebrities he has long admired.

Colbert also discussed the emotional toll the announcement took on him.

“There’s a sadness, a sense of loss, but also a freedom,” he said.

“It’s like leaving a house where you’ve raised a family—you’re sad to go, but there’s this exciting unknown waiting outside.

” When asked about his next steps, Colbert hinted at exploring new creative avenues, possibly returning to more scripted comedy, directing, or even venturing into projects that combine his love for politics and storytelling.

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

“I want to challenge myself in ways I haven’t before.”

The interview also delved into Colbert’s personal history, revealing struggles that shaped him both on and off camera.

Colbert opened up about his battles with anxiety during his younger years, noting that the pressures of performing and public life often became overwhelming.

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

“I experimented with marijuana as a way to calm myself, but ultimately it was about understanding my own limits and finding healthier ways to manage my mental health.”

He also touched on a particularly difficult period in his life when he experienced a nervous breakdown.

“It was a wake-up call,” Colbert recalled.

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

It changed how I approach work and life.

” Despite these struggles, Colbert credits comedy and the support of his family as key factors in his resilience.

He has been married to Evelyn McGee-Colbert for over two decades, and he frequently cites her influence in keeping him grounded through tumultuous times.

Colbert’s reflections on the trajectory of his career underscore both the highs and lows of life in the public eye.

From his early days as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to his own late-night program, he has been known for his sharp wit, political satire, and ability to blend humor with meaningful commentary.

“Every stage has been a learning experience,” he said.

“The cancellations, the successes, the mistakes—they’re all part of the journey.”

Looking ahead, Colbert is optimistic about new opportunities.

Though CBS will no longer host his late-night show, he emphasized that the end of one era does not signal the end of his creativity.

“I’ve always believed in the power of reinvention,” he said.

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

As fans await the final episodes of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, this interview serves as a reminder of the man behind the microphone—a comedian willing to share his vulnerabilities, confront change, and embrace the unknown with curiosity and humor.

Colbert’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the enduring drive to connect with audiences, proving that even as one chapter closes, another is ready to begin.

In the meantime, viewers can expect the final months of The Late Show to be filled with surprises, emotional moments, and perhaps even glimpses of the next phase of Colbert’s illustrious career.

With a legacy firmly established in late-night television, Colbert is poised to explore new creative territories, all while reflecting on the journey that brought him to this pivotal moment.