New York, NY – Stephen Colbert's long-running tenure on 'The Late Show' concluded yesterday, May 22nd, 2026, with a star-studded finale. Notably absent from the broadcast, however, was any direct mention of former President Donald Trump, a figure who had been a frequent target of Colbert's satire for years. This omission has sparked commentary, with some suggesting it reflects an ongoing "war" between the presidency and media outlets deemed hostile.
The departure marks the end of a significant era in late-night television, one heavily defined by its critical engagement with political figures, particularly Trump. While the show's finale was packed with celebrity guests and well-wishers, the deliberate silence on the former president’s name has been interpreted by various observers, including Colbert himself, as a pointed commentary on the current political climate.
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A Final Curtain Call
The final broadcast, taped earlier in the day at the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater, drew considerable crowds. Hundreds lined up outside, eager for a glimpse of the host or a chance to be part of the studio audience for the show's swan song.
The absence of any Trump-related jokes or commentary stands in contrast to Colbert's established persona. For years, 'The Late Show' served as a prominent platform for dissecting and lampooning political events, with Trump frequently at the center of its monologues and sketches.
"The President Americanne ne s’est lui pas privé de saluer ce départ. Mais de nombreuses voix, à commencer par celle de l'animateur de 62 ans, y ont vu la main du président américain, en guerre ouverte contre les médias qu'il juge lui être hostiles." (The American President did not hesitate to welcome this departure. But many voices, starting with that of the 62-year-old host, saw in it the hand of the American President, in open war against the media he deems hostile.)
Echoes of a Political Rivalry
This perceived silence on the final night is seen by some as a direct response to Trump's own public statements regarding Colbert's show. Reports indicate that Trump has previously characterized Colbert as a "perfect cretin" and has expressed satisfaction with the show's conclusion.
The dynamic between the former president and the late-night host had become a defining feature of the political media landscape. Colbert's brand of satire often focused on Trump's policies and public statements, creating a narrative of persistent opposition. The decision to conclude the show without referencing this ongoing tension adds another layer to the analysis of Colbert's final broadcast.
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The 'Late Show' has been a fixture on American television for 33 years, evolving through different hosts and formats. Colbert's era, beginning in 2015, became particularly known for its sharp political commentary.
