Story perspectives

CBS Licenses “Linus and Lucy” Theme, Donates Proceeds to Charity

6/18/2026

Summary

Colbert Licenses Theme

CBS licensed the “Linus and Lucy” theme from Lee Mendelson Film Productions for host Stephen Colbert’s May 21 Late Show finale.
All settlement proceeds will be donated to World Central Kitchen, adding to a $2.5 million contribution the show made earlier.
Lee Mendelson Film Productions did not disclose the payment.
Chairman Jason Mendelson called the use “funny and entertaining” and praised the charity.
The agreement resolves the copyright issue without litigation.

Summary

Colbert Launches Show

Paramount's parent company announced a merger with Skydance, led by CEO David Ellison, pending approval, after $16 million settlement it paid U.S. President Donald Trump to end a 2024 “60 Minutes” lawsuit.
Stephen Colbert’s criticism of settlement led executives to refuse renewing his contract after the May 21, 2026 finale.
After leaving CBS, Stephen Colbert launched a show in Monroe, Michigan, noting a “Lord of the Rings” film with his son Peter.

Summary

Colbert Mocked Aid

Users mocked a fine, joking Stephen Colbert's "Snoopy dance" aided World Central Kitchen.
Commenters noted the irony of humanitarian aid from a TV performance payout.
Observers compared CBS's payment to the undisclosed settlement in the Paramount-Skydance deal.

Summary

Late Show Ends

Network executives said the cancellation was purely financial, rejecting political motives.
The Late Show debuted on CBS in 1993 and ended after almost 33 years.
Stephen Colbert began hosting in 2015 after David Letterman’s retirement.
Lee Mendelson Film Productions sued the U.S. Interior Department, a video-game maker, a collectibles auction house and an apparel firm over unlicensed Guaraldi music to educate businesses and governments about proper licensing.

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Colbert Licenses Theme

CBS licensed the “Linus and Lucy” theme from Lee Mendelson Film Productions for host Stephen Colbert’s May 21 Late Show finale.
All settlement proceeds will be donated to World Central Kitchen, adding to a $2.5 million contribution the show made earlier.
Lee Mendelson Film Productions did not disclose the payment.
Chairman Jason Mendelson called the use “funny and entertaining” and praised the charity.
The agreement resolves the copyright issue without litigation.

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