Stephen Colbert 2024 Ratings Analysis — Comparing The Late Show with Other Late-Night Programming

As we dive into 2024, early ratings for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert have been revealed, showcasing its performance alongside other notable late-night programs. Stephen Colbert, recognized as one of the leading talk show hosts of today, transitioned from his comedic persona on The Colbert Report to take the helm of The Late Show in 2015. This shift marked a significant pivot as he replaced his satirical character with a more authentic style, initially taking some time to resonate with audiences.

However, over the years, Colbert has adeptly blended his comedic background with a lighthearted interviewing approach, allowing him to maintain the show’s relevance. He has successfully navigated the challenges of late-night television, affirming his position as a deserving successor to the legendary David Letterman. Despite the notable decline in live talk show ratings across the board in 2024, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert continues to hold its ground in popularity.

Stephen Colbert: The Pinnacle of Late-Night Ratings

Colbert Ranks Highly in the Key 18-49 Demographic

In terms of share percentage—which evaluates the proportion of viewers relative to total television viewership—The Late Show with Stephen Colbert emerged as the frontrunner in 2024, as reported by LateNighter. The show achieved an impressive average share of 8.7% among all viewers aged 2 and older during its 11:35 PM slot. Additionally, it captured the coveted 18-49 demographic, drawing an average nightly viewership of 281, 000, translating to a 4.47% share.

Interestingly, Comedy Central’s The Daily Show had the most substantial year-over-year growth, skyrocketing by 84% in total viewership and 53% in the 18-49 demographic. However, it’s worth noting that outside of The Daily Show, programs like Gutfield, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and After Midnight with Taylor Tomlinson did not see an increase in viewership compared to 2023. One potential factor contributing to this trend could be the Writers Strike in 2023, which may have affected the overall metrics for late-night shows.

Live+.7 Ratings – Key 18-49 Demographics
Avg Share (%)	Avg Viewers (000’s)	Vs Last Year
10:00 PM
Gutfield!	2.35	241	+29.57%
Watch What Happens Live	1.36	153	-27.49%
11:00 PM
The Daily Show	2.32	196	+53.13%
11:35 PM
Jimmy Kimmel Live!	3.56	221	-12.30%
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert	4.47	281	-8.77%
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon	3.46	220	-16.67%
12:37 AM
Nightline	2.58	125	-12.59%
After Midnight	3.46	156	–
Late Night with Seth Meyers	3.38	152	-13.64%

Late-night shows typically see a drop in ratings during summer episodes; however, due to the absence of summer programming in 2023—stemming from the Writers Strike—the year-end averages of that period were not adversely affected. Despite a notable decline in overall viewership from 2023 to 2024, Stephen Colbert recorded the least decline in the crucial 18-49 demographic, implying his sustained relevance among younger viewers.

What Lies Ahead for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

Colbert’s Late-Night Journey is Just Beginning

The new episode season for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert kicked off on January 6, 2025, and Colbert shows no signs of slowing down. With a legacy to uphold—David Letterman hosted for 23 seasons—Colbert is presently only finishing his 10th season, suggesting he has plenty of time ahead. Given the political landscape and a significant U. S.election year approaching, the show’s ratings in 2025 are anticipated to reflect heightened viewer interest.

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