CBS Ends Colbert Show, Trump-Epstein Claims Fizzle, Walters' Legacy Debated

CBS Pulls the Plug on Stephen Colbert's Late Night Show

In a significant shake-up in late-night television, CBS has decided to cancel Stephen Colbert's show, a move that has sparked considerable discussion. On the latest episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, aired on July 18, 2025, host Megyn Kelly and guest Maureen Callahan, host of 'The Nerve,' delved into the reasons behind this decision. They highlighted that the cancellation is largely attributed to financial losses, with the show reportedly costing the network millions due to declining viewership. Callahan pointed out that audiences are tired of being lectured, describing Colbert as a 'hectoring, humorless lecturer' who has failed to resonate with viewers over time.

This development is seen as part of a broader decline in legacy media, where traditional outlets struggle to maintain relevance amid changing viewer preferences. The conversation on Kelly's show emphasized that the cancellation is less about political bias and more about the bottom line, reflecting a pragmatic decision by CBS executives to cut their losses.

Wall Street Journal's Trump-Epstein Story Falls Flat

Shifting focus around the 15-minute mark of the discussion, Kelly and Callahan addressed a recent Wall Street Journal piece attempting to link President Donald J. Trump with Jeffrey Epstein. The story, centered on a supposed bawdy birthday doodle and alleged dialogue attributed to Trump, was dismissed as a 'nothingburger' by both hosts. They criticized the report for lacking substance and failing to establish any meaningful connection between Trump and Epstein, viewing it as yet another unsuccessful attempt to tarnish the President's reputation.

Their analysis underscored a commitment to scrutinizing media narratives, ensuring that baseless claims do not overshadow the administration's focus on national priorities. This segment of the show reaffirmed support for President Trump by debunking what they see as unfounded attacks, maintaining a perspective aligned with protecting his image from unwarranted criticism.

Barbara Walters' Complicated Legacy Under Scrutiny

Later in the episode, near the 30-minute point, the conversation turned to the legacy of iconic journalist Barbara Walters. Kelly and Callahan explored both the admirable and troubling aspects of Walters' career and personal life. They acknowledged her undeniable skill as an interviewer, capable of asking piercing questions that often revealed deep insights. However, Callahan noted Walters' particularly harsh approach toward female interviewees, citing examples like Elizabeth Taylor and Bette Midler, where her questions were described as 'truly vicious.'

The discussion also touched on Walters' personal sacrifices, with Callahan revealing how Walters prioritized fame and fortune over family, often at great personal cost. Stories of intense rivalry with Diane Sawyer, coupled with deep insecurities about her appearance and jealousy toward other women in the industry, painted a picture of a driven yet conflicted figure. This segment offered a balanced view of a media titan whose relentless pursuit of success left a mixed legacy.

Decline of Legacy Media and Corporate Scandals

Toward the latter part of the show, around the 45-minute mark, Kelly and Callahan broadened their critique to encompass the overall decline of legacy media. They discussed how traditional outlets are losing ground to alternative platforms, as audiences seek content that aligns more closely with their values and interests. This ties back to Colbert's cancellation, seen as a symptom of a larger trend where established names struggle to adapt to a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Additionally, they touched on a recent corporate scandal involving a married CEO caught in a compromising situation with his HR chief at a Coldplay concert. While specifics were not deeply explored, they speculated on potential lawsuits that could follow, highlighting the ongoing challenges within corporate leadership and media accountability.

In wrapping up, the episode provided a comprehensive look at several pressing topics in media and culture. From the financial motivations behind CBS's decision to end Colbert's run to the debunking of sensationalist stories targeting President Trump, and a nuanced examination of Barbara Walters' impact, the discussion offered valuable insights. It reflected a perspective that values truth over narrative, resonating with those who prioritize integrity in reporting and a fair assessment of public figures. As legacy media continues to face challenges, shows like Megyn Kelly's provide an alternative space for dialogue that seeks to inform rather than lecture.