Stephen Colbert jokes about ‘Late Show' cancellation, mocks JD Vance, and courts streaming platforms
Referencing a Daily Beast report about Vance allegedly requesting Ohio's river levels be raised for a personal boat trip, Colbert introduced a new character called 'Wittle Pwince Vance.' Donning a mask of the senator's face with a crown and using a baby voice, he mocked the alleged entitlement, exclaiming, 'I want my wiver waised for my birthday!' before dramatically demanding juice — and later an execution — from an imaginary royal court. 'Not fwuit juice — apple! Kill him! Kill him!' Colbert added, in full satirical character.
After removing the mask, Colbert turned to the camera and quipped, 'Netflix, call me. I'm available in June,' hinting at future job opportunities after CBS officially ends The Late Show in May 2026. He added, 'I will also entertain offers from Amazon,' as the bit continued.
Earlier in the episode, Colbert addressed recent criticisms from former President Donald Trump, who claimed Colbert and other late-night hosts lacked talent. Trump's comments surfaced shortly after CBS' parent company, Paramount, agreed to a $16 million settlement with Trump related to a legal dispute over 60 Minutes. While Paramount insists Colbert's show was canceled for financial reasons, speculation of political motivations has grown.
Colbert responded by sarcastically agreeing with Trump's talent assessment, telling his audience, 'I think we're all equally untalented.' He also aired a mock promotional clip highlighting Trump's remarks, ending with the graphic: 'Colbert is No. 1 in late night. Just ask our elderly viewers' — followed by a stamp reading 'Still Canceled!'
Colbert's final episodes are scheduled to air through May 2026, marking the end of a decade-long run.
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