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Legendary late-night host David Letterman didn't mince words after CBS and Skydance announced the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's 'The Late Show.' In a scathing rebuke, Letterman accused the network and David Ellison's media company of acting like 'goons,' suggesting the decision was driven by political motivations rather than ratings or performance.

The cancellation, announced earlier this week, sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. While CBS cited a desire to explore new directions for the late-night slot, Letterman's comments have fueled speculation about a deeper, more politically charged reason behind the move.

Speaking on his SiriusXM show, “Letterman,” the former CBS mainstay expressed his disbelief and disappointment. “I’ve been thinking about this a lot,” he said. “Stephen Colbert is a very smart, talented, and important voice. And I’m just… I’m sorry to see it go. I think it’s a mistake.”

Letterman didn't hold back in his criticism of CBS and Skydance, particularly referencing David Ellison, the CEO of Skydance Media, which has a significant stake in CBS. He used the term “bottom feeders” to describe their actions, implying a willingness to sacrifice talent and quality for perceived political gain. He further speculated that Colbert’s show might have been targeted due to its perceived progressive or liberal leanings, a point that has been widely discussed online.

“I’m just saying, you look at the people involved, you look at David Ellison and Skydance… and you think, ‘What are their motives here?'” Letterman pondered. “It's just… it's sad. It’s sad to see a good thing go.”

The 'Late Show' under Colbert had been a consistent performer, often praised for its sharp political commentary and celebrity interviews. While ratings had declined in recent years, they remained competitive within the late-night landscape. The abrupt cancellation has led to questions about the future of late-night television and the influence of corporate and political agendas on creative decisions.

Colbert himself has yet to publicly address Letterman's comments, but sources close to him indicate he is “disappointed but understanding” of the network's decision. CBS has maintained that the cancellation was a strategic move to refresh the late-night programming lineup.

Letterman's outspoken criticism adds another layer of complexity to an already controversial situation. His decades-long history with CBS lends weight to his accusations, and his remarks are sure to spark further debate about the intersection of entertainment, politics, and corporate power in the media industry. The situation raises serious questions about the independence of creative voices and the potential for political interference in programming decisions.

Ultimately, the cancellation of 'The Late Show' and Letterman’s fiery response serve as a stark reminder of the ever-evolving and often unpredictable nature of the television industry.