CBS is making another change to its late-night programming, confirming that After Midnight will conclude its run later this year. The decision follows host Taylor Tomlinson’s choice to step away and dedicate her focus to stand-up comedy, bringing the 12:35 a.m. show to an end despite plans for a third season.
Here’s the Lowdown: The final episodes of the panel show are scheduled for June. Taylor Tomlinson, who took the helm when the show launched in January 2024, cited a desire to return to her “first passion” of stand-up touring as the reason for her departure. The show, produced by Stephen Colbert’s company, was designed as a modern successor to Comedy Central’s @midnight, filling the slot vacated by James Corden’s Late Late Show.
What This Means Now: With Tomlinson exiting, CBS has opted not to continue the program or find a replacement for the 12:35 a.m. time slot next season. This leaves an opening in the network’s late-night schedule. Both Tomlinson and executive producer Stephen Colbert expressed appreciation for the show’s run and the team involved, with Colbert acknowledging respect for Tomlinson’s career decision.
The Bigger Picture: The end of After Midnight after just two seasons points to the ongoing challenges and changes within the late-night television format. While the show aimed to capture a specific audience with its internet-centric games and rotating comedian panels, averaging around 700,000 broadcast viewers, the host’s personal career goals ultimately determined its lifespan. The future use of the 12:35 a.m. slot by CBS or its affiliates is yet to be announced.
