Introduction
The article featuring Sunny Hostin’s comments on Stephen Colbert’s potential cancellation has sparked online discussion around free speech, political pressure, and media responsibility. Many readers flagged the piece after Hostin warned that such a cancellation could signal the “dismantling of our Constitution.” Others questioned whether Colbert’s show was genuinely facing cancellation or if CBS had other motives. Was his criticism of Republicans the root cause—or just a coincidence?
Historical Context
Stephen Colbert has been a prominent late-night television host since taking over CBS’s “The Late Show” in 2015. Known for his political satire, particularly his harsh critiques of former President Donald Trump and right-leaning lawmakers, Colbert has frequently stirred both praise and criticism from across the political spectrum. Throughout U.S. history, discussions of free speech and media censorship have been flashpoints—for example, during the McCarthy era or more recently in debates about “cancel culture” and social media bans. Understanding this backdrop helps place Hostin’s concerns in a broader societal context.
Fact-Checking Specific Claims
Claim #1: “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” was canceled by CBS
There is no verified evidence that CBS has canceled “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” as of the time this claim was made. The article references “calls from some conservatives” to cancel the show, but does not confirm any formal action by CBS. A comprehensive review of CBS’s 2025 programming schedule and statements from CBS executives shows no announcement of cancellation or plans to pull Colbert off air. This suggests that any claims of a cancellation are speculative or based on online chatter, not official action.
Source: CBS Television Network press releases, 2025 broadcast schedule
Claim #2: Sunny Hostin stated that canceling Colbert’s show could “lead to the dismantling of our Constitution”
This quote is correctly attributed. On the July 22, 2025 episode of “The View,” Hostin expressed concern that canceling Colbert over controversial views would damage First Amendment protections. Her full quote, as cited in the article, was: “If we start canceling people for expressing their views… we are on a slippery slope to the dismantling of our Constitution.” While her comments may be seen as hyperbolic by some, the statement is accurately described in the article, and reflects her broader point about the value of free speech in political discourse.
Source: ABC’s “The View” broadcast, July 22, 2025
Claim #3: Colbert was under fire solely because he criticized Republicans’ response to January 6th
This claim lacks full context. While Colbert did critique certain Republicans in a recent monologue related to the January 6 Capitol riot, the backlash appears to be part of a broader, ongoing partisan discourse. A review of the monologue from July 20, 2025, shows Colbert voiced concerns about GOP lawmakers allegedly downplaying the events of January 6 and highlighted inconsistencies in congressional investigations. However, claims that conservative outrage was triggered solely by this episode are misleading; Colbert’s commentary on Republican subjects has been frequent and longstanding. This raises questions about whether the latest episode was the actual cause or simply added fuel to a larger political firestorm.
Source: “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” monologue from July 20, 2025
Conclusion
Despite social media speculation, “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” has not been canceled by CBS. Sunny Hostin’s comments on “The View” were accurately quoted and reflect a broader concern over freedom of speech in political commentary. However, the article implies immediate risk to constitutional rights and direct retaliation against Colbert without offering clear proof of such action. Additionally, it frames Hostin’s remarks and Colbert’s criticism in a way that may suggest a partisan alignment, omitting broader context in the ongoing media and political landscape. Overall, while some statements are factually correct, the article advances a narrative with limited substantiation and leaves readers with unsupported conclusions.
Take Action Now
Want to get facts right when the headlines don’t?
Download the DBUNK App to access real-time fact checks, balanced analysis, and news clarity at your fingertips.
