CBS Reviews Takedown Notices After Colbert Episode Criticism

CBS has temporarily halted issuing copyright takedown notices for an episode of the show “Only in Monroe” that featured a surprise appearance by Stephen Colbert. This decision follows criticism from viewers after CBS implemented its usual practice of issuing notices.

After Colbert’s final episode on “The Late Show,” he appeared on “Only in Monroe,” a public access program in Michigan. Social media users criticized CBS’s parent company, Paramount, for issuing takedown notices to those attempting to upload the episode.

Matthew Keys, a journalist, accused Paramount of trying to suppress the episode despite its production by a public access channel. Following the backlash, Paramount retracted the copyright claim. A CBS spokesperson confirmed that the episode was financed and produced by CBS Studios and shared on YouTube channels in collaboration with Monroe Community Media.

As is our regular practice, we send copyright notices to unauthorized websites that post content featuring CBS network talent like Stephen Colbert, the statement explained.

The spokesperson added that CBS paused further enforcement until additional review. The network recently canceled “The Late Show,” which ran for 33 years. The decision drew criticism and speculation of political motives, given Colbert’s critiques of former President Donald Trump.

Colbert, during his farewell, mentioned his future on “Only in Monroe,” referencing his first show at the Monroe, Michigan station. “Though technically our first show in July of 2015 was from a public access station in Monroe, Michigan,” he noted, signaling a potential return to smaller platforms.