Network 10 Locks in Late-Night Shake-Up Following Colbert Exit — But It’s a Familiar Face Filling the Gap – Network 10 has confirmed its late-night plans following the imminent conclusion of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in the United States, with the long-running talk show set to wrap on May 21 (US time) and screen its final Australian episode on Friday, May 22.
The end of Colbert’s run leaves a notable hole in 10’s late-night schedule — one that has, until now, served as a consistent destination for topical US content. However, rather than introducing new international programming or expanding its existing slate of dramas, 10 is opting for a more familiar — and arguably safer — direction.
From the following week, the network will roll out double episodes of The Big Bang Theory every weeknight at 11:00pm, following its 10:30pm 10 News+ Encore. The updated late-night structure will look like this:
- 9:30pm — 10’s Late News
- 10:30pm — 10 News+ Encore
- 11:00pm — The Big Bang Theory (double episodes, Monday to Friday)
The decision effectively leans on one of television’s most recognisable and enduring sitcoms to anchor the post-news slot — a move that reflects a broader industry trend toward reliable, low-risk programming in late-night hours.
While The Big Bang Theory remains a proven performer with broad audience appeal, the choice is likely to raise eyebrows among viewers expecting a fresh offering to replace Colbert. Network 10 currently holds a number of US drama titles — including procedural and franchise series — that have yet to find consistent placement in the schedule, leading to speculation that late night could have been an opportunity to reintroduce them.
Instead, 10 appears to be prioritising stability and familiarity over experimentation. From a programming perspective, the approach is understandable: late-night audiences are typically smaller and more fragmented, making cost-effective, repeatable content an attractive option. Sitcom reruns, particularly those with strong brand recognition, often deliver steady — if unspectacular — results.
It’s also worth noting that The Big Bang Theory has historically performed well for the network and continues to resonate across multiple demographics, over on 10 Comedy.
Doubling down on that strength may offer consistency during a transitional period in the late-night lineup.
At the same time, the move highlights the ongoing challenge for free-to-air broadcasters in balancing audience expectations with commercial realities. With streaming services continuing to dominate the space for premium scripted content, traditional networks are increasingly selective about where and how they deploy their acquired programming.
For viewers, the change marks the end of an era in late-night viewing on 10 — and the beginning of a more familiar, comfort-driven alternative.
Whether this strategy holds or evolves in the coming months remains to be seen, but for now, Network 10 is keeping things simple: when in doubt, go with what works.
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Exclusive | Network 10 Locks in Late-Night Shake-Up Following Colbert Exit — But It’s a Familiar Face Filling the Gap
