Jon Stewart Questions Future of ‘The Daily Show’ as Colbert’s ‘Late Show’ Axed Amid Paramount-Skydance Merger

The future of late-night television has been thrown into question as Jon Stewart, host of ‘The Daily Show,’ admitted this week that he does not know what lies ahead for the iconic satirical program in the wake of parent company Paramount Global’s planned merger with Skydance Media . The move follows the recent axing of Stephen Colbert’s ‘Late Show’ on CBS, amplifying anxieties over the future of progressive and inclusive voices in mainstream media.

During a recent episode of his ‘Weekly Show’ podcast, Stewart addressed mounting speculation about the fate of ‘The Daily Show’ as the Paramount-Skydance merger looms. “You know, unfortunately, we haven’t heard anything from them,” Stewart remarked, referencing the incoming Skydance management led by David Ellison. “I’ve been kicked out of sh--tier establishments than that. We’ll land on our feet. No, I honestly don’t know,” he added, signaling both resilience and real concern for his team .

The uncertainty surrounding Stewart’s future was compounded by the announcement that Stephen Colbert’s ‘Late Show’ would be ending, a move that comes amid Paramount’s controversial $16 million settlement with former President Donald Trump . Both Stewart and Colbert have been outspoken critics of the settlement, with Colbert publicly accusing Paramount’s management of questionable motives and Stewart describing the situation as “they may sell the whole… place for parts” .

The merger and its fallout have raised alarms not only about the future of beloved late-night programming but also about the broader environment for diversity and inclusion in media. Shows like ‘The Daily Show’ and ‘The Late Show’ have long been platforms for marginalized voices, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, to be seen, heard, and affirmed.

For LGBTQ+ viewers and creators, the uncertainty surrounding late-night’s most progressive programs is particularly troubling. Historically, both Stewart and Colbert have used their platforms to highlight LGBTQ+ rights, challenge anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, and celebrate queer culture. The loss or diminishment of such platforms could mean fewer opportunities for authentic LGBTQ+ storytelling and advocacy in mainstream media—a concern echoed by advocacy organizations whenever inclusive programming is threatened .

Moreover, the ongoing merger has raised fresh questions about media accountability and the pressures that come with corporate consolidation. Paramount’s settlement with Donald Trump, which has sparked outrage among its own talent, suggests a willingness to make business decisions at the expense of editorial independence and the integrity of news and satire . For LGBTQ+ audiences, who rely on transparent and inclusive media coverage, these developments serve as a stark reminder of the volatility of representation in a corporate-driven media landscape.

While Stewart has expressed confidence that he and his team will “land on our feet,” the fate of ‘The Daily Show’ and similar programming highlights the precariousness of progressive media under the current wave of mergers and restructuring . As entertainment conglomerates prioritize profitability and consolidation, the risk is that LGBTQ+ stories and perspectives—already underrepresented in mainstream news and satire—could be further marginalized.

Advocates are urging audiences to remain vigilant and vocal in support of inclusive programming. The ongoing changes at Paramount and CBS underscore the need for continued advocacy, both within the industry and among viewers, to ensure that LGBTQ+ representation remains a priority in American media.

For now, the future of ‘The Daily Show,’ its staff, and its role as a progressive voice in late-night television remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: as the landscape shifts, the need for platforms that champion diversity, challenge injustice, and amplify LGBTQ+ voices is more urgent than ever.