Jon Batiste Speaks Out in Support of Colbert After ‘Late Show’ Cancellation

Jon Batiste is speaking out following CBS’ decision to end The Late Show With Stephen Colbert in 2026.

In a new interview with Rolling Stone AU/NZ, the Grammy-winning musician and former Late Show bandleader called the move “a symptom of big money,” warning about the impact of corporate decisions on free speech.

“We’re in a time where the right price can silence the voice of free speech, which we should be very, very conscious of,” said Batiste, who led the show’s house band from 2015 to 2022. “As artists, we have to constantly fight for free speech and fight for the ability to be able to share the authentic truth of our being.”

CBS announced last month that the show would end next year, citing financial reasons. However, the decision has stirred controversy and drawn criticism from several high-profile figures, including Jon Stewart and David Letterman, and prompted speculation about possible political motivations.

Batiste reflected on his seven-year tenure alongside Colbert to the publication, which began when he was in his 20s. “It meant so much to be on national television and learning the ropes of being on a nightly show with a band, and really being on camera and doing that for seven years. And to evolve as an artist in partnership with him,” he said. “I’m very grateful to him and I think where he goes next, his voice won’t be silenced.”

The cancellation of The Late Show comes 10 years after Colbert took it over from prior host David Letterman. CBS has made it clear that it won’t be replacing the Daily Show alum with someone new, but is canning the program altogether.

“We are proud that Stephen called CBS home,” the network added in its statement. “He and the broadcast will be remembered in the pantheon of greats that graced late night television.”

Batiste is set to release his new album Big Money later this year.