Air Schedule and Typical Airtime
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is a late night talk show produced by CBS Studios and aired on CBS. New episodes typically air on weekdays from Monday through Friday. In the United States Eastern Time zone, the show usually begins at 11:35pm ET. Pacific Time viewers will generally see it at 8:35pm PT. Local start times can vary slightly in other countries or in markets where the network schedules preemption for local news or syndicated programming. Because the show follows a traditional Monday through Friday late‑night calendar, its pattern is predictable across the year with exceptions for holidays, special events, or occasional hiatuses.
Time Zone and Regional Variations
Because the United States spans multiple time zones, the live feed time differs for viewers depending on where they are located. In the Eastern zone, the show airs at 11:35pm; in the Central zone, at 10:35pm; in the Mountain zone, at 9:35pm; and in the Pacific zone, at 8:35pm. International audiences should check local listings to confirm whether a network in their region broadcasts the show live, delays it, or offers it on catch‑up platforms. Factors such as local advertising blocks or breaking news can shift the exact start time by a few minutes, so verifying the schedule in your specific market is recommended.
How to Find the Current Schedule
To find the most accurate and up‑to‑date schedule for The Late Show, use official channels and trusted listing services. The CBS official website and the show’s own web page are primary sources for any changes in season start dates or adjustments. TV listings on the night of broadcast will show the local channel and exact time. If you rely on a cable or satellite provider, you can check your provider’s on‑screen guide or app. For viewers using streaming platforms that carry CBS live, the same local schedule will apply unless you are using a service that offers network feeds on a delay.
Streaming and On‑Demand Options
Beyond traditional linear viewing, The Late Show offers flexibility through digital platforms. CBS provides streaming live on Paramount+ in the United States with a subscription. Live streams usually follow the same schedule as the broadcast, but local market restrictions can apply. Episodes are typically added to on‑demand libraries shortly after airing, allowing viewers to watch at a later time if they miss the live broadcast. Note that availability windows and features such as offline viewing can change based on platform updates or licensing agreements.
Platform Availability at a Glance
| Platform | Access Type | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Paramount+ | Subscription streaming | Live streams and recent episodes |
| CBS App (select regions) | Live TV stream with cable login or subscription | Live with local feed or delayed access |
| On‑demand services | Free with ads or via subscription | Episodes available for a limited time after broadcast |
Special Episodes, Preemptions, and Hiatuses
The show follows a Monday through Friday schedule for most of the year, but there are periods when new episodes do not air. During the summer, The Late Show often enters a hiatus, sometimes labeled as a summer break, with reruns airing in place of new episodes. Holiday weeks, such as the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, may also feature limited new content. Additionally, breaking news or network specials can preempt the show on short notice. When planning to watch live, it is helpful to check the calendar for announced hiatus dates and any special one‑off episodes, such as anniversary shows or interviews tied to major cultural moments.
Common Periods With Altered Scheduling
- Summer hiatus: Often runs for several weeks in July or August with reruns.
- Year‑end holidays: Limited new episodes during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
- Special events: Occasional one‑off episodes tied to major cultural moments or charity events.
- Breaking news: Short‑term preemption when CBS airs extended news coverage.
Set Alerts and Reminders
Because the show follows a predictable weekly pattern, you can set up reminders to ensure you never miss an episode. On TV provider apps and smart TV platforms, you can usually add a series reminder that uses your local affiliate’s schedule. Streaming services such as Paramount+ may offer notification options within the app for live streams or new episode releases. If you follow The Late Show on social platforms, official accounts sometimes post advance notices about schedule changes, guest lists, or special themes. For viewers who rely on online guides, calendar apps that import TV listings can be a reliable way to stay informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are concise answers to common questions about when and how to watch The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
| Question | Answer | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| What time does The Late Show air in Eastern Time? | 11:35pm ET on weekdays. | Network schedule |
| Does it air on weekends? | No, the regular show airs Monday through Friday. | Network schedule |
| Can I watch it live if I use a streaming service? | Yes, via Paramount+ or a CBS live TV stream with local feed access. | Platform information |
| Are there reruns during the summer? | Yes, the show typically goes on hiatus and airs reruns in July and August. | Historical scheduling patterns |
| How can I check if a new episode is preempted? | Check the CBS affiliate guide, the show’s official site, or your streaming app for real‑time updates. | Network and platform guidance |
Summary
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs on CBS in the United States on weekdays, generally at 11:35pm ET, with corresponding times in other zones. For the most reliable information, use CBS and show-specific sources, check your local listings, and confirm streaming availability on Paramount+. Be aware of summer hiatuses, holiday schedules, and occasional preemptions so you can plan to watch live or choose an appropriate time to catch up on demand.