Many viewers check whether The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs reruns on their local schedule, especially when tuning in late at night or during holiday breaks. Understanding how reruns are scheduled helps you plan when to watch new episodes versus repeats.
Below is a quick reference for what to expect on different dates and platforms, plus deeper guidance on when new episodes appear and what to do when you only see repeats.
| Date | Scheduled Show | Type | Where to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonight | Check local CBS listing | Live or Rerun | CBS app, station finder, TV guide |
| Weekdays 11:35 PM ET | First-run episode (season weeks) | Live new episode | CBS broadcast, Paramount+ live stream |
| Holidays and travel weeks | Frequent reruns | Encore | Local CBS, DirecTV, YouTube TV |
| Streaming on Paramount+ | Recent episodes available next day | On-demand | Paramount+ app, network apps |
Tonight Is a Rerun on My Local CBS Station
If your local CBS affiliate is showing a repeat instead of a new episode, the show is designated as a rerun for tonight. This commonly happens when the program schedule shifts during holidays, transition weeks, or summer breaks. You can confirm by checking the station’s electronic program guide or the CBS network schedule.
Standard New Episode Schedule
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert follows a consistent weekly rhythm on CBS. New episodes typically air from Monday through Thursday at 11:35 PM Eastern Time, with no show on Fridays. During major holiday periods, the show often runs a week of highlights or reruns instead of fresh content.
How to Find Live Episodes
Watching live ensures you catch the latest interviews, musical performances, and political commentary without delays. You can access new episodes on CBS broadcast, the CBS app, and supported cable and streaming services that carry the network.
Streaming and On-Demand Options
For viewers who miss the live broadcast, multiple platforms offer next-day access to new episodes. These services also maintain a library of recent segments and full episodes so you can catch up on interviews or special segments at your convenience.
Quick Checklist for Viewers
- Check your local CBS schedule or CBS app before turning on the TV.
- Verify live stream access on Paramount+ if you subscribe via cable.
- Look for special holiday or travel week schedules in advance.
- Set a reminder on streaming apps to be notified when new episodes post.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why is The Late Show showing a rerun tonight even though it is a weekday? CBS may insert reruns during special weeks, such as election coverage, major award seasons, or when the production schedule is adjusted for guest availability and travel. Can I watch new episodes of The Late Show on streaming if I miss the live broadcast?
Yes, new episodes are usually available on Paramount+ and network apps the day after they air, and selected clips and full episodes appear regularly on digital platforms.
How can I check whether my cable package includes CBS live?
Use the channel guide on your cable or streaming device to tune to the local CBS affiliate, or consult your provider’s lineup to confirm that WCSH, WNYC, or the relevant station is included.
Will there be a new episode during the holiday break or special event week?
During major holidays or significant news events, The Late Show often airs encores, highlights, or special editions rather than new interviews.