Colbert exits as ratings king — but CBS had bigger reasons

Why this story

End of major cultural institution that defined political commentary, timely given current political moment.

AUDIENCE TAKE

CBS killed their ratings winner to appease Trump — Colbert led late-night for years while facing constant presidential attacks.

CRITIC TAKE

Colbert evolved from satirist to democracy's watchman when politics became self-satirizing, per NYT's finale analysis.

CULTURAL CONTEXT

Temple's Dustin Kidd calls the cancellation politically motivated — economics can't explain axing late-night's ratings leader.

Hidden Truth

Hidden truth: Paramount paid Trump $16M over '60 Minutes' while needing his approval for their Skydance sale — Colbert was the sacrifice.

Should TV networks prioritize editorial independence over corporate deal approval?

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