CBS Ditches Moves To Stop YouTube Bootlegs Of Colbert's post-Late Show show

Key Points:

• Stephen Colbert's post-Late Show move appears to involve online content, as evidenced by his May 22 Michigan public access special "Only in Monroe," which aired the day after his final Late Show episode on CBS.
• CBS Studios, owned by David Ellison, financed and produced the "Only in Monroe" episode and posted it on Colbert's YouTube channel in collaboration with Monroe Community Media and The Late Show’s YouTube channels.
• Despite initial reports of CBS sending takedown notices to unauthorized sites hosting the special, CBS clarified they were enforcing standard copyright protection but have since decided to waive further enforcement for this episode.
• Colbert’s YouTube channel, launched in April 2025, currently features only the "Only in Monroe" video but is expected to expand as Colbert likely pursues an online platform for his future projects, reflecting a shift toward digital content amid the decline of traditional late-night TV.
• The special, featuring guests like Jack White and Eminem, has garnered significant views, and the move aligns with YouTube’s broader strategy to attract top talent, especially as it prepares to host major events like the Oscars starting in 2029.