Trump Attacks Late-Night Hosts, Colbert Fires Back

President’s Jab at Talent Sparks On-Air Response and Mock Promo

Donald Trump recently launched a stinging critique of late-night television personalities, calling them untalented. The former president specifically targeted Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel, and Jimmy Fallon, dismissing their comedic abilities.

Colbert’s Ratings Defense and “Cancellation” Joke

In response to Trump‘s broadside, Colbert playfully acknowledged the president’s viewership, stating, “To be fair, I think we’re all equally untalented.” He then revealed a new promotional clip for “The Late Show,” which humorously referenced Trump‘s own comments about Colbert‘s ratings.

The mock promo declared, “Stephen Colbert is number one in late night,” cheekily adding, “Just ask our elderly viewers.” It further incorporated the former president’s assertion that “Everyone’s watching,” before delivering the punchline: “Still canceled.”

Allegations of Political Motivation

Colbert‘s show was reportedly affected by a merger attempt by CBS’ parent company, Paramount. Critics suggested the company might have sought to appease Trump, whose public animosity towards “The Late Show” is well-documented, to secure necessary federal approvals for the deal. This move followed Paramount’s settlement with Trump, reportedly for $16 million, in a lawsuit many legal observers deemed meritless.

The political landscape surrounding media influence is often complex. For instance, a 2023 Pew Research Center study found that media consumption habits significantly influence public opinion on political matters, with partisan news sources often reinforcing existing beliefs.

Trump’s Broad Criticism of Late-Night Hosts

Trump‘s earlier remarks, made earlier in the week, specifically targeted Colbert, claiming the host “has no talent.” He extended this criticism to Kimmel and Fallon, questioning their comedic prowess.

Colbert, however, used the moment to defend his colleagues while simultaneously highlighting the perceived absurdity of the situation. He also noted his own show’s strong ratings compared to the others, a point that Trump himself had seemingly acknowledged.