Colbert Strikes Back at Trump Amid Cancellation Drama

In a bold response following the cancellation of his Late Show, Stephen Colbert declared "the gloves are off" during his first broadcast, taking aim at none other than Donald Trump. This fiery comeback comes after a political uproar, with notable figures rallying behind Colbert, including Jon Stewart, who vehemently criticized Paramount for attempting to "censor and control" its hosts.

The Shocking Cancellation and Financial Fallout

Colbert, America’s reigning late-night king, was blindsided by Paramount's recent decision to pay a staggering $16 million settlement to Trump relating to another flagship CBS program, 60 Minutes. This controversial move was seen as a desperate ploy for approval from the Trump-controlled Federal Communications Commission regarding a $8 billion sale to Skydance.

Just three days after this revelation, Colbert found himself without a show, prompting glee from Trump, who celebrated Colbert's dismissal on his Truth Social platform.

A Monologue Like No Other: Colbert’s Response

Colbert didn’t hold back, boldly telling Trump to "go fuck yourself," while humorously reflecting on his peculiar dream of receiving a presidential farewell. He quipped, "They say I delivered a blistering monologue just two days before my cancellation. Coincidence? Oh, I think not. This is worse than fascism. This is stachism!"

Colleagues Stand in Solidarity

In a powerful display of support, Colbert's fellow late-night hosts—John Oliver, Seth Meyers, and Jon Stewart—joined him on Monday night’s episode, reinforcing the united front against corporate censorship. Other celebrities such as Lin-Manuel Miranda and Adam Sandler also showed up, making the event a star-studded moment in late-night television.

Stewart, who launched Colbert’s late-night career in the ’90s, didn’t pull any punches either. On The Daily Show, he lambasted CBS for failing to protect its leading late-night program. He posed the question: "Was this purely financial, or the easiest route for your $8 billion merger?" He also led the audience in a rebellious chant directed at corporations capitulating to Trump.

Colbert’s Emotional Farewell and Public Outcry

During his show, Colbert became visibly emotional after guest Sandra Oh expressed a "plague on CBS and Paramount," commending Colbert for his fearless comedy. Skipping a planned Q&A after taping, Colbert admitted to being nervous and expressed how much he would miss his audience.

Outside the Ed Sullivan Theater, fans protested with signs reading, "Colbert Stays! Trump Must Go!" expressing their discontent over the cancellation. One audience member, a high school teacher named Elizabeth Kott, lamented the current state of affairs, declaring, "It’s terrible that companies feel the need to obey in advance."