Hugh Jackman, Bette Midler, and Jimmy Fallon are just a few stars who have recently paid tribute to Stephen Colbert and The Late Show. As the show comes to a close on May 21, many in the entertainment world are reflecting on Colbert’s unique voice in late-night TV.
Colbert, now 62, brought a much-needed dose of humor to a turbulent political climate. His monologues helped viewers feel less isolated amidst the chaos of Donald Trump’s presidency. While Trump often oozed arrogance, Colbert offered empathy. With his mix of humor and decency, he became a soothing presence on our screens.
The announcement of The Late Show’s cancellation last July raised eyebrows. Many believed it was linked to Colbert’s sharp comments about a controversial legal settlement involving Trump and CBS’s parent company, Paramount. Just days later, Paramount’s multi-billion merger with Skydance was approved, leading many to wonder if the cancellation was politically motivated.
David Letterman, a late-night icon himself, expressed skepticism about CBS’s claims that the decision was purely financial. “They’re lying,” he said, echoing sentiments shared by other industry insiders.
Late-night comedy has shifted over the decades. Johnny Carson ruled for many years until his retirement in 1992. CBS then launched The Late Show with Letterman, and Colbert took the helm in 2015. Initially, Colbert struggled to find his footing, but he eventually flourished with the help of showrunner Chris Licht, shifting his focus to more political satire. This change, coupled with the political climate, boosted his ratings.
Political humor, especially directed at Trump, became a focal point. Stephen Farnsworth, co-author of Late Night With Trump, noted, “Trump’s persona provides endless material for comedy.” Colbert hit the nail on the head with his impressions and critiques, making him a must-watch during the Trump era.
During a recent interview, Colbert addressed accusations of partisanship, insisting he simply critiques bad behavior, regardless of party lines. This non-partisan approach resonated with fans, as he balanced sharp humor with moral grounding.
Colbert’s interviews often delved into serious topics, showcasing a vulnerability that was rare for late-night television. David Litt, a former Obama speechwriter, remarked on Colbert’s unique ability to tackle hard conversations, connecting emotionally with guests and viewers alike.
The cancellation of The Late Show is one result of broader issues in the shift to digital media. Statistics show that younger audiences prefer streaming content over traditional TV, leading to declining ratings and ad revenue. Carter and others believe Colbert’s departure is a significant loss for late-night comedy.
Looking ahead, Colbert is exploring new avenues. He’s reportedly working on a script for a new Lord of the Rings film. There’s speculation about a potential return, whether as a one-man show or a cable series, echoing past legends.
In the wake of his show’s end, it’s clear that while the format may change, Colbert’s influence on late-night TV and the national conversation will be felt for years to come.
For further insights on the changing landscape of late-night television and its cultural impact, check out this New York Times article.
