End of an Era: CBS Shuts Down 12:30 AM Slot After After Midnight Cancellation
Taylor Tomlinson’s After Midnight Canceled After Two Seasons—CBS Ends Late-Night Slot
CBS Cancels After Midnight and Shuts Down 12:30 AM Programming
The late-night television landscape is undergoing a major shift as CBS has officially canceled After Midnight, the comedy panel show hosted by stand-up comedian Taylor Tomlinson. The network is also eliminating its 12:30 AM programming slot entirely, marking the end of an era for CBS’s late-night schedule.
Taylor Tomlinson Steps Away to Focus on Stand-Up
Tomlinson, a rising star in the comedy world, had helmed After Midnight for two seasons. While the show had initially been renewed for a third season, CBS ultimately reversed its decision, citing scheduling changes and Tomlinson’s desire to return to her roots in stand-up comedy.
“This show was the experience of a lifetime,” Tomlinson said in a statement. “I appreciate CBS, Stephen Colbert, the producers, and the entire After Midnight staff and crew for all the love, support, and unforgettable memories.”
What Was After Midnight About?
Debuting in 2023, After Midnight was a late-night comedy panel show inspired by the viral, social media-driven @midnight series. Each episode featured a rotating panel of celebrity guests—mostly comedians—who engaged in humorous discussions about pop culture, trending topics, and social media phenomena.
The show initially leaned into its improvisational, internet-inspired humor but later introduced more traditional late-night elements, including monologues and political commentary.
Behind-the-Scenes Changes and Challenges
Throughout its two-season run, After Midnight underwent several changes. The second season saw a new co-showrunner, J.D. Amato (formerly of Desus & Mero), who joined alongside Jack Martin, replacing Eric Pierce.
The show also faced external challenges, including a temporary production halt due to wildfires in Los Angeles earlier this year. While it managed to push through these setbacks, CBS’s ultimate decision to exit the 12:30 AM time slot meant that After Midnight was left without a home.
CBS Ends a 30-Year Legacy in Late Night
The cancellation of After Midnight marks the end of CBS’s programming in the 12:30 AM slot, closing a nearly three-decade-long chapter in the network’s history. The slot was previously occupied by The Late Late Show, which premiered in 1995 and featured notable hosts such as:
- Tom Snyder (1995–1999)
- Craig Kilborn (1999–2004)
- Craig Ferguson (2005–2014)
- James Corden (2015–2023)
Under James Corden, The Late Late Show saw massive digital success, especially through viral segments like Carpool Karaoke. However, CBS has now opted to move away from producing content for this time slot entirely.
The Struggles of Late-Night Television
The cancellation of After Midnight is part of a broader shift in late-night television. In recent years, multiple shows have struggled to maintain viewership and financial stability. Other hosts and shows that have left the format include:
- Conan O’Brien (Conan, ended 2021)
- Samantha Bee (Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, canceled 2022)
- Charlamagne Tha God (Hell of a Week, canceled 2023)
- Desus & Mero (Desus & Mero, ended 2022)
Even established programs have had to make adjustments. The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon reduced its production schedule, and Late Night with Seth Meyers cut back on expenses by eliminating its live band.
The impact of these changes extends beyond programming cuts. The late-night Emmy race has also seen a decline in nominations, as fewer shows remain in contention.
Stephen Colbert and CBS Respond to Cancellation
Stephen Colbert, an executive producer of After Midnight, expressed his gratitude for the show’s time on air.
“While we were excited and grateful for our third season to start in the fall, we respect Taylor’s decision to return to stand-up full time,” Colbert said.
After Midnight was produced by CBS Studios, Colbert’s Spartina Industries, and Funny Or Die.
What’s Next for Taylor Tomlinson?
With After Midnight now officially over, Tomlinson is returning to her first love: stand-up comedy. Fans can expect to see her on tour, performing live across the country.
While CBS’s late-night future remains uncertain, Tomlinson’s career continues to rise, proving that even in the shifting media landscape, great comedy finds a way to thrive.
