Why Did Stephen Colbert Take a Jab at Trump's Emmy Drought?

The ongoing rivalry between Stephen Colbert and former President Donald Trump has intensified, particularly following Colbert's recent Emmy win. The Late Show With Stephen Colbert clinched its first Emmy for Best Talk Series at the 2025 Emmy Awards, marking a significant achievement for the show, especially in light of its impending cancellation in May 2026. This article explores the details of Colbert's Emmy win, his humorous acceptance speech, and the context of his ongoing feud with Trump.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Colbert's Emmy Win

• Stephen Colbert's The Late Show won its first Emmy for Best Talk Series.
• Colbert expressed gratitude to his team during his acceptance speech.
• The show is set to end its run in May 2026, despite the Emmy win.
• Colbert took a light-hearted jab at Donald Trump during his monologue.
• Trump previously commented negatively on Colbert's career following cancellation news.

A Historic Emmy Win for The Late Show

At the 2025 Emmy Awards held on Sunday, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert made headlines by winning the prestigious award for Best Talk Series. This victory was particularly noteworthy as it was the first Emmy win for the show, which has been a staple of late-night television since its debut in 2015. Colbert's victory came at the expense of seasoned competitors like Jimmy Kimmel Live! and The Daily Show, highlighting the show's enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

Colbert's Acceptance Speech

During his first show after the Emmy win, Colbert proudly displayed his golden statuette to a lively audience. His opening remarks were both humorous and heartfelt. "We should have gotten canceled years ago," he quipped, referencing CBS's announcement earlier in July that The Late Show would conclude its run in May 2026. This moment not only showcased Colbert's wit but also hinted at the challenges faced by the show in recent years.

Colbert went on to express gratitude to the 200 individuals behind the scenes who contribute to the show's success. "This award belongs to the 200 hardworking people who make this show," he stated, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to produce a nightly talk show. His appreciation extended to the writers, stage crew, production staff, and even the audience, whom he credited as integral to the show's achievements.

The Context of the Feud with Donald Trump

The rivalry between Colbert and Trump has been a long-standing feature of late-night television. Colbert, known for his sharp political satire, has frequently targeted Trump in his monologues. This feud intensified earlier in the year when Trump publicly commented on The Late Show's cancellation news, expressing his delight over Colbert's perceived failure. "I absolutely love that Colbert got fired," Trump wrote on Truth Social, further escalating the tension between the two figures.

Colbert's Jabs at Trump

Colbert has never shied away from taking jabs at Trump, and his Emmy win provided yet another opportunity to poke fun at the former president. In his opening monologue, Colbert remarked, "Speaking of Emmys, Donald Trump doesn’t have one." This quip not only highlighted the absurdity of their rivalry but also served as a reminder of Colbert's place in the late-night landscape.

Colbert's ability to blend humour with sharp political commentary has solidified his position as a leading voice in late-night television. His Emmy win is a testament to his talent and the hard work of his dedicated team, even as the show's future remains uncertain.

What Happens Next for The Late Show?

With The Late Show set to conclude its run in May 2026, fans are left to wonder what the future holds for Colbert and his team. The Emmy win may serve as a poignant reminder of the show's legacy and its impact on the landscape of late-night television. As the show approaches its end, it will be interesting to see how Colbert navigates the final stretch and continues to engage with the political landscape.

Colbert has proven to be adaptable, and his comedic style may evolve as he approaches the conclusion of his show's run. The Emmy win could be a catalyst for even more creative and engaging content, as Colbert and his team celebrate their achievements while also reflecting on the challenges ahead.

The Legacy of The Late Show

As The Late Show With Stephen Colbert approaches its conclusion, its legacy is already evident. The show's unique blend of humour and political critique has resonated with audiences, making it a significant player in late-night television. Colbert's ability to tackle contemporary issues while providing entertainment has set a high standard for future talk shows.

The Emmy win serves as a fitting capstone to The Late Show's run, showcasing the talent and dedication of its team. It also highlights the importance of late-night television as a platform for political discourse and satire, particularly in the current political climate. Colbert's influence extends beyond the realm of entertainment, as he continues to shape public opinion through his incisive humour.

Conclusion

Stephen Colbert's Emmy win is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for The Late Show. His ongoing rivalry with Donald Trump adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, reflecting the complex relationship between politics and entertainment. As the show gears up for its final season, fans can look forward to more memorable moments and clever commentary. What will Colbert do next as he navigates the final chapters of this iconic series? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What did Stephen Colbert win an Emmy for?

Stephen Colbert won an Emmy for Best Talk Series at the 2025 Emmy Awards, marking The Late Show's first Emmy win.

When will The Late Show With Stephen Colbert end?

The Late Show is set to conclude its run in May 2026, as announced by CBS in July 2023.

What did Donald Trump say about Colbert's Emmy win?

Donald Trump previously expressed his delight over Colbert's show being cancelled, stating he loved that Colbert got fired and questioned his talent compared to other hosts.

How did Colbert react to winning the Emmy?

Colbert celebrated his Emmy win by thanking his team and jokingly referencing his show's cancellation, highlighting the collaborative effort behind The Late Show.

What is the significance of Colbert's rivalry with Trump?

The rivalry showcases the intersection of politics and entertainment, as Colbert often uses humour to critique Trump and engage with current political issues.