CBS Halts Copyright Takedown Notices for Colbert’s ‘Only in Monroe’ Episode

CBS has temporarily stopped issuing copyright takedown notices for a recent episode featuring Stephen Colbert on the show “Only in Monroe.” The decision followed online criticism of the practice and occurred after Colbert’s final episode of “The Late Show” aired on CBS.

The appearance marked Colbert’s return to late-night television the day after his CBS finale. He appeared on “Only in Monroe,” a public access program in Monroe, Michigan, the same show he guest-hosted in 2015 before starting “The Late Show.”

Social media backlash ensued after CBS issued copyright notices to individuals attempting to upload the episode. A CBS spokesperson stated this was “regular practice.” Journalist Matthew Keys accused Paramount, CBS’ parent company, of suppressing copies of the episode on public access TV. On Sunday, Keys disclosed that Paramount had lifted the copyright claim.

CBS explained that the episode was financed and produced by CBS Studios. It was uploaded to Stephen Colbert’s YouTube channel in collaboration with Monroe Community Media and “The Late Show’s” YouTube channels. The network routinely sends copyright notices to unauthorized websites sharing CBS content, but has paused this to review the policy.

Paramount-owned CBS recently faced criticism after announcing the cancellation of “The Late Show,” which had a 33-year run. This decision came as the network sought government approval for a merger with Skydance. Colbert, a prominent critic of President Trump, indicated in his farewell monologue a possible return to “Only in Monroe.”

During his final monologue, Colbert addressed the show’s cancellation from the Ed Sullivan Theater, expressing gratitude for his time on “The Late Show.” He recalled his first broadcast from the Monroe station in 2015, hinting it might be a future venue.