CBS Drops Copyright Claim Against Colbert Parody Show
CBS and Paramount have reversed their decision to restrict the sharing of Stephen Colbert's parody, which aired as "Only In Monroe" the day after his departure from "The Late Show." This hour-long episode, featuring Jack White, quickly gained popularity and was extensively circulated, leading CBS to issue copyright claims. The network clarified that the episode was created by CBS studios and authorized for three YouTube channels, but they chose to suspend enforcement while it undergoes review. Colbert's highly-rated show was terminated in July 2025 due to financial issues linked to Paramount Global's $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media. His last episode, which included Paul McCartney, aired on May 21 and humorously highlighted local subjects alongside his television success.
Key facts
- CBS and Paramount backed away from efforts to limit reposting of Stephen Colbert's mock appearance on 'Only In Monroe'.
- Colbert posted the parody a day after being ousted from his 11-year run on 'The Late Show'.
- The episode featured rockstar Jack White as a sidekick and went viral.
- CBS initially fired off copyright protection notices but later waived enforcement.
- CBS canceled Colbert's show in July 2025, citing financial reasons.
- Paramount Global sought Trump administration approval for its $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media.
- Byron Allen, host of 'Comics Unleashed,' replaced Colbert's slot and said his show would avoid political comedy.
- Colbert's final show aired Thursday, May 21, with Paul McCartney; Bruce Springsteen appeared on Wednesday.
Entities
Artists
- Stephen Colbert
- Jack White
- Bruce Springsteen
- Paul McCartney
- Jeff Daniels
- Byron Allen
Institutions
- CBS
- Paramount Global
- Paramount
- The Late Show
- Monroe Community Media
- The Hollywood Reporter
- NPR
- Skydance Media
- Comics Unleashed
Locations
- New York
- Monroe
- Michigan