CBS recently issued copyright notices for an episode of the show “Only in Monroe” featuring Stephen Colbert, following its usual practice. The company, however, has decided to stop issuing takedown notices while it conducts a further review. This decision came after public criticism of the company’s actions. The criticism coincided with Colbert’s final star-studded episode of “The Late Show” on CBS.
A day after his final episode, Colbert made an unexpected appearance on “Only in Monroe,” a public access TV program in Monroe, Michigan. This was the same show on which he appeared in 2015 before launching “The Late Show.” The copyright action by CBS drew criticism on social media towards CBS’ parent company, Paramount. Online users attempting to share copies of the episode faced copyright notices, which CBS described as a standard measure.
Journalist Matthew Keys accused Paramount of trying to limit the distribution of the episode across other social media platforms. Keys noted on a social media post that Paramount later withdrew the copyright claim. CBS stated that the episode, which featured Colbert, was financed and produced by CBS Studios. It was released on Stephen Colbert’s YouTube channel in partnership with Monroe Community Media and ‘The Late Show’s’ YouTube channels. According to CBS, sending copyright notices to unauthorized websites sharing their content is their regular procedure. Nevertheless, CBS confirmed it would suspend this policy for now.
In related news, CBS had previously announced the cancellation of “The Late Show” in July, ending its 33-year run. This prompted criticism from some who accused the network of yielding to political pressures. CBS was then seeking the Trump administration’s approval for an $8 billion merger with Skydance and claimed the decision was financially driven due to challenges in the late-night market.
During his farewell monologue, Colbert hinted at his return to “Only in Monroe.” At the Ed Sullivan Theater, he mentioned his upcoming appearance, noting, “Tonight is our final broadcast from the Ed Sullivan Theater.” He playfully recalled his initial show at the public access station in Monroe, Michigan for “an audience of 12 people,” humorously suggesting this might be where audiences would see him next.