R1 From a quiet network exit to a full-blown power move, Stephen Colbert has officially teamed up with Jasmine Crockett to launch a “no-permission” talk show that’s already shaking late night to its core.
In a twist no one in Hollywood saw coming, Stephen Colbert—the man CBS quietly pushed aside when canceling The Late Show earlier this year—has roared back with a brand-new talk show, partnering with rising political firebrand Rep. Jasmine Crockett in a move that’s already being called the ultimate revenge tour.
The duo’s debut episode dropped on a streaming platform last night, opening with Colbert’s grinning declaration: “We don’t need CBS’s permission anymore.”
Within hours, industry group chats lit up, network executives froze mid-meeting, and late-night rivals began sweating—because this isn’t just a comeback; it’s a bold redefinition of the genre that could burn down the house CBS built.
The untitled show, produced independently with backing from major streaming partners, blends Colbert’s razor-sharp satire with Crockett’s unfiltered political fire—a combination that’s explosive from the jump.
The premiere featured no polite nostalgia for Colbert’s CBS era; instead, a cold open mocking network decisions, followed by Crockett’s viral-ready clapbacks on current headlines.
“We’re free now,” Colbert told the live audience.
“No corporate notes, no safe topics—just truth, laughs, and whatever Jasmine wants to say next.”
Crockett, the Texas Democrat known for memorable House floor moments like the “bleach blonde bad built butch body” exchange, brought instant energy: “Stephen and I?
We’re here to speak for people tired of scripted nonsense.” Her presence—young, bold, and unapologetically progressive—complements Colbert’s veteran wit, creating chemistry that’s already generating buzz as “must-watch chaos.”
The timing feels deliberate.
Colbert’s Late Show ended abruptly amid ratings shifts and network restructuring, leaving fans heartbroken and Colbert publicly gracious—but privately motivated, sources say.
“CBS thought they were done with him,” one insider revealed.
“This is Stephen saying, ‘Watch me thrive without you.’”
The debut episode pulled massive streaming numbers overnight, with clips of Colbert’s “permission” line and Crockett’s takedowns going mega-viral. Social media erupted: #ColbertCrockett and #LateNightRevenge trending worldwide.
Fans raved: “This duo is fire—CBS fumbled the bag!”
Rivals like Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers reportedly watched warily, while Kimmel tweeted support: “Welcome back, Stephen—make ’em sweat.”
Industry reaction is electric.
Executives admit the independent model—subscription-based, no ads, total creative control—threatens traditional late-night. “Colbert’s proving you don’t need a network anymore,” one said.
“With Crockett’s viral power, this could pull younger viewers networks chase.”
Colbert closed the premiere with a wink: “We’re just getting started. Late-night TV? We’re changing it forever.”
CBS declined comment, but sources say regret is brewing: “They never thought he’d land this hard without them.”
As the holidays wrap, Colbert’s revenge tour begins. No permission needed.
Just fire, freedom, and a duo ready to burn bright.
The king is back—and he’s brought backup.
