CBS has confirmed plans to donate licensing fees from a recent incident involving Stephen Colbert’s “The Late Show.” This decision comes after Colbert famously played an unlicensed piece from the Christmas classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” during his final episode on 21 May. The funds raised from this will be channelled to Chef José Andrés’ charitable organisation, World Central Kitchen.
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Colbert’s departure from the long-running late-night show, where he had served for 11 years, was announced last year amidst a backdrop of criticism aimed at CBS’s corporate leadership. This criticism stemmed from the network’s decision to settle a lawsuit involving former President Donald Trump. CBS later cited financial considerations, rather than political motivations, as the primary reason for Colbert’s exit.
On the memorable night of his finale, Colbert mockingly acknowledged the use of the song “Linus and Lucy,” composed by Vince Guaraldi, during a segment. As his band, led by Louis Cato, began to perform the piece, Colbert quipped, “Oh no, I hope this doesn’t cost CBS any money.” Nearly a month later, the rights holders, Lee Mendelson Film Productions, Inc., confirmed that the unsanctioned use of the music would indeed incur costs.
In response, the undisclosed amount that CBS is set to pay will be directed toward World Central Kitchen, a humanitarian initiative founded by Chef Andrés. Notably, this follows a substantial contribution of $2.5 million that Colbert arranged for the charity in his second-to-last episode. Jason Mendelson, chairman of LMFP, expressed his support for World Central Kitchen’s work and emphasised the importance of obtaining proper licenses for music use in commercial contexts.
World Central Kitchen has built a reputation for providing meals in areas affected by crises, including war and natural disasters. In reflecting on the incident, Colbert noted the power and influence of the “Peanuts” brand, remarking, “Anyone illegally using that music is going to have to pay through the nose.”
Colbert’s tenure on “The Late Show” came to an end as CBS and its parent company, Paramount, underwent significant changes, including a merger with Skydance under the leadership of David Ellison, a notable supporter of Donald Trump. This shift coincided with a $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. that required federal approval. The fallout from a separate settlement with Trump, concerning a 2024 “60 Minutes” interview, added to the turmoil at CBS, including the dismissal of long-serving staff members.
The lawsuit that prompted Colbert’s controversial segment was widely regarded by First Amendment experts as lacking merit. The confusing and rapidly evolving corporate landscape at CBS has prompted ongoing changes in leadership, resulting in the departure of many experienced journalists, including Scott Pelley.
Since the conclusion of his show, Colbert has shifted his focus to other projects. He has made appearances on Michigan public access television and confirmed that his popular Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavour would remain available. Recently, he also honoured his wife’s philanthropic contributions during a speech in New York.
Looking to the future, Colbert has hinted at potential projects, including involvement in a new “Lord of the Rings” film alongside his son, Peter. However, he admits uncertainty about his next steps, stating, “I don’t have much better of an answer than most college seniors do.”
As Colbert navigates this new chapter, he remains a prominent figure in entertainment, with many fans eagerly awaiting his next move. The donation to World Central Kitchen highlights not only a light-hearted moment turned serious but also Colbert’s commitment to philanthropy even amid career transitions.