Stephen Colbert Reveals Severe COVID-19 Battle, Faced Potential Long-Term Neurological Impact
NEW YORK – Stephen Colbert disclosed in a deeply personal monologue delivered on The Late show this week that he contracted COVID-19 in April 2023 and experienced a debilitating illness that left him questioning his cognitive abilities and even his sense of self. The comedian and host revealed the extent of his symptoms, which included severe fatigue, loss of sensation, and alarming memory lapses, prompting fears of lasting neurological damage.
Colbert’s experience underscores the continued threat posed by COVID-19, even with widespread vaccination and evolving variants. While the initial acute phase of the pandemic has subsided, long COVID and the potential for severe illness remain a concern, notably for individuals with underlying health conditions. His openness about his struggle aims to destigmatize the ongoing effects of the virus and highlight the importance of continued vigilance and preventative measures. the revelation also offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain of a highly public figure, revealing vulnerability and the challenges of maintaining a persona while grappling with personal health crises.
The host explained that his initial symptoms were relatively mild, but quickly escalated, leaving him bedridden for weeks. ”I was not well,” Colbert stated, describing a period of intense physical and mental exhaustion. He detailed experiencing a loss of sensation in his legs and,more disturbingly,cognitive difficulties that impacted his ability to recall details and even perform his job. “Sometimes I feel… like I’m doing an impression of myself doing an impression of me,” he confessed, hinting at a disconnect between his public persona and his internal experience.
Colbert’s monologue, punctuated by bracketed asides that mirrored his internal anxieties, revealed his fear that his cognitive decline might permanently alter his ability to host The Late Show. He expressed concern that the part of his brain that fueled his on-air confidence was ”getting louder to cover for the part that can’t remember why.” He even preemptively asked the audience to refrain from applause if he faltered during a performance and instead to address him by his name, hoping to jolt him back to awareness.
Medical professionals have noted that neurological symptoms, including cognitive impairment, are increasingly recognized as potential long-term effects of COVID-19.The virus can directly impact the brain,causing inflammation and disrupting neural pathways. While Colbert did not disclose specific medical diagnoses, his description of his symptoms aligns with reported experiences of long COVID patients.
Despite the severity of his illness, Colbert assured viewers that he is now recovering, though he acknowledged the lingering uncertainty. He concluded his monologue with a defiant declaration of a “new normal,” emphasizing resilience and the human capacity to adapt. “COVID doesn’t change who we are-it just helps us forget who that was,” he stated, a sentiment that resonated with many who have experienced the lasting impact of the pandemic.
