What time is The Late Show on
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs weeknights on CBS in the United States, typically at 11:35 PM Eastern and 10:35 PM Central after The Late Late Show. In Pacific Time, the show usually begins at 8:35 PM. These time slots can vary slightly around special broadcasts, holiday weeks, or technical changes, so it is best to check local listings or the show’s official sources for a specific episode. The show follows a structured weeknight schedule, with reruns sometimes scheduled in place of new episodes during holiday periods or planned breaks.
Standard time zone schedule for U.S. viewers
Because U.S. viewers are spread across multiple time zones, it helps to know the local equivalent of the CBS broadcast time. Times below assume a regularly scheduled new episode and do not account for occasional schedule shifts.
| U.S. Time Zone | Typical Local Airtime (New Episode) | CBS Flagship Station (New York) |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern | 11:35 PM | 11:35 PM ET |
| Central | 10:35 PM | 10:35 PM CT |
| Mountain | 9:35 PM | 9:35 PM MT |
| Pacific | 8:35 PM | 8:35 PM PT |
Where to look up the exact air date and time
Because live+ same-day scheduling can shift for specials, breaking program changes, or regional sports, the most reliable method is to check a current source. Use the show’s official links, your TV provider’s schedule, or a trusted listings site to confirm the local time for the upcoming episode you want to watch.
- CBS.com and the CBS app: Check the local station schedule for your ZIP code.
- Local CBS affiliate on TV or website: Find the station and check its program listing.
- TV provider guide: Use your streaming app, cable box, or satellite guide to see the listing for CBS in your area.
- Calendar and reminder tools: Add the show’s time to your digital calendar once you confirm the local equivalent in your time zone.
How The Late Show schedule typically works
Weeknights are the backbone of The Late Show, with new episodes airing Monday through Friday during the main television season. The show generally follows this pattern, with reruns or encores on weekends and some holiday periods. Breaks, special broadcasts, and occasional preemption for network events can shift a specific air date by a day, so it is important to verify before planning to watch live.
Season and hiatus patterns
Like many scripted and talk series, The Late Show observes broadcast season rhythms. Summer schedules may feature repeats, special summer series, or limited new episodes. The show usually follows network announcements for start dates, finale dates, and any extended hiatuses, so checking CBS press releases or the show’s official social channels can clarify timing around these periods.
International viewers: how to find local times
If you are outside the United States, you will need to map the U.S. time to your local clock and check whether a local partner broadcaster carries the show. Many regions have their own versions of late-night talk, or they may air The Late Show on a delayed basis via cable channels or streaming services with international rights. Always confirm with the local broadcaster or streaming platform for your region’s exact schedule.
Steps to confirm your local time
- Find your local CBS affiliate or authorized broadcaster if available.
- Check any regional streaming service that holds rights to CBS programming in your country.
- Convert the U.S. airtime to your local time zone, accounting for any delay in broadcast.
- Set a reminder using a reliable source for any changes near broadcast dates.
Streaming, on demand, and next-day viewing
Even if you cannot watch live, multiple options exist to catch up quickly. CBS offers on-demand episodes through the CBS app and website, often available the same day after broadcast. Streaming plans that include CBS, such as Paramount+, can provide a convenient way to watch current and recent episodes. Keep in mind that availability windows and ad-supported tiers can differ by region.
Quick comparison of common viewing options
| Viewing option | When it is available | Typical access conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Live CBS broadcast | Weeknights at local time | Antenna or cable subscription required |
| CBS app on-demand | Same day after live airing | Free with TV provider login in supported areas |
| Paramount+ (ad-supported) | Next-day streaming | Subscription may be required depending on plan and region |
| International broadcasters | Varies by market, often delayed | Check local listings and streaming rights |
Special broadcasts and schedule variations
The Late Show occasionally moves from its regular slot for network specials, holiday shows, or extended coverage of major events. Reruns may replace new episodes during holiday weeks or when the show takes a planned break. Before you adjust your plans, verify whether the upcoming night features a new episode or an encore. CBS may also announce schedule shifts in advance, so following the show’s official social channels or checking CBS press releases can reduce surprises.
Summary: how to stay current with The Late Show
To know when The Late Show is on, align your expectations with the standard weeknight slot and use authoritative sources to check for updates. Confirm local time with CBS listings or your TV provider, set reminders for new episodes, and use on-demand options when live viewing is not possible. These steps will keep your viewing consistent whether you are in the U.S. or watching from another region.