CBS Adjusts Copyright Actions Following Colbert’s Appearance

CBS recently issued copyright notices for an episode featuring Stephen Colbert on the show Only in Monroe. This action is part of its usual practices. However, CBS has decided to halt further takedown notices pending a review. This step follows criticism after Colbert’s final episode of The Late Show on CBS.

Colbert reappeared on Only in Monroe, a public access show in Monroe, Michigan. His previous appearance on this show was in 2015, before debuting on The Late Show. After Colbert’s appearance, some fans received copyright takedown notices when attempting to upload the episode. This move drew criticism towards CBS’ parent company, Paramount.

Journalist Matthew Keys accused Paramount of trying to suppress the episode’s distribution on social media. He noted on social media platform X that Paramount later withdrew the copyright claim. In a statement, CBS clarified that Only in Monroe featuring Colbert was financed and produced by CBS Studios. It was shared on Stephen Colbert’s YouTube channel alongside Monroe Community Media and The Late Show‘s YouTube channel.

CBS stated, “As is our regular practice, we send copyright notices to unauthorized websites posting copyrighted content from CBS and our network/studio talent such as Stephen Colbert.” The company has decided to hold off further enforcement of this practice until a detailed review is completed.

In July, CBS, owned by Paramount, announced the cancellation of The Late Show, which had been on air for 33 years. This announcement led to criticism from those who believed CBS gave in to political pressure during the Trump administration as it sought approval for an $8 billion merger with Skydance. Colbert frequently criticized former President Donald Trump on the show. CBS claimed the show’s cancellation was a financial decision due to late-night market challenges.

In his farewell monologue, Colbert hinted at returning to Only in Monroe. He remarked, “This is our final broadcast from the Ed Sullivan Theater,” which resulted in audience boos. Colbert added that their first show in July 2015 was from a public access station in Monroe, Michigan, pointing out that due to current trends in the industry, audiences might see him there again.