Statement From Local 802 AFM, Union Representing Musicians at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

July 25, 2025

NEW YORK – Robert Suttmann, President of Local 802 American Federation of Musicians, the union representing the live musicians who work at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, issued the following statement today:

“The cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert without clear explanation is deeply concerning and raises serious questions about the broader implications for free expression and artistic freedom.

Live music has been an integral part of late-night shows for decades – serving as a vital platform for musicians to reach audiences, showcase their artistry, and participate in cultural dialogue. Colbert’s cancellation threatens not only the livelihoods of the world-class musicians who perform on the show, it also undermines the fundamental principles of free speech and creative expression that are cornerstone values of our industry and our nation.

We need to be very honest about what’s happening here: the President of the United States himself has said he hopes he played a role in the decision, and has warned NBC and ABC that their late night hosts are next.

This is why it is vital for NBC and ABC to state, loudly and clearly, that they will not allow themselves to be similarly intimidated. Now, more urgently than ever, is a time for courage, not cowardice.

CBS’s decision is about much more than just a late night talk show. When an administration tries to silence criticism and dissent by asserting its power, we all need to take notice.

When censorship is used as a tool to quash free speech, we must stand up together.  What’s happening now is not only wrong, it goes against what we must stand for as a nation.

Local 802 stands by our members and also in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in labor who work on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. We will take whatever steps are necessary to protect our workers.”

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