Legacy of Colbert’s ‘The Late Show’ and Museum of Broadcast Communications

The cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” by CBS has not taken away its legacy, which now finds a permanent home at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago. The set, including the iconic desk and chairs, made a journey from a New Jersey warehouse to the Randolph Street museum in Chicago last week. This city holds special significance for Colbert as it is where he began his comedy career.

David Plier, chairman, president, and CEO of the museum, emphasized the importance of this acquisition. At its peak, the show’s star-studded finale on May 21 drew 6.74 million viewers, according to Nielsen ratings, marking a high point in Colbert’s 11-year television run. The museum, aspiring to be the Smithsonian of late-night TV, considers this set a significant addition.

The set’s delivery took place on a Thursday, with pieces arriving intact but later than expected. Plier personally supervised the process, including the challenging task of moving Colbert’s desk off the truck.

Colbert himself influenced the decision for the set’s relocation to Chicago. The Museum of Broadcast Communications, now situated at 440 W. Randolph St., hopes with a $2.5 million city grant and a $12 million capital campaign, to make this location its permanent home. Plans include renaming the museum to honor a famous Chicagoan and expanding its mission nationwide.

The late-night TV exhibition highlights various significant moments in television history, such as Johnny Carson’s iconic set and the saxophone Bill Clinton played during his presidential campaign. Visitors can also explore many pieces that reflect Chicago’s broadcast history, such as “Bozo’s Circus” and “Svengoolie.”

“Whether you’re a Democrat or Republican, whether you liked that show or not, it’s still television history, and now it’s here,” Plier said.

In related news, WGN-TV and its owner Nexstar Media face a lawsuit for broadcasting interviews with Brandon Ellington, known as “Mr. Finance,” accused of running a Ponzi-like investment scheme. Featured on WGN incorporating hosts like Sarah Jindra, this led to significant financial loss among investors.

Ellington promoted his investment program through various media outlets, resulting in legal action led by Chicago attorney Alexander Loftus. The lawsuit names several radio stations for airing his investment advice.

On a personal note, the Chicago sports community mourns the loss of Stacey King, a treasured basketball analyst and former player who made significant contributions both on and off the court.

Last but not least, veteran sports anchor Ryan Baker announced his departure from CBS 2 to lead a nonprofit youth organization, First Tee-Greater Chicago. His career at CBS saw him in various roles, accumulating 18 years of service at WBBM-TV.