The Chicago comedian expressed on Tuesday that the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” might actually inspire a new joke about President Donald Trump, which contrasts with concerns voiced by some critics on the left.
Following CBS’s recent announcement of the show’s cancellation, various commentators and lawmakers criticized the decision, branding it as authoritarian. Many suggested that CBS, after settling a lawsuit recently, may have been influenced by Trump.
While some see this as a warning of increased censorship or a change in political dynamics, comedians from Chicago, familiar with Colbert’s emerging talent, believe differently.
Charlamagne described Trump as attempting to create “American North Korea” through oppressive media practices.
“It’s targeting someone who’s the president,” late-night host Mark Baser commented. “That’s just part of the game. I suspect there are very few comedians or late-night hosts who will bow down.” He added that Colbert might now feel free to make Trump-centric jokes without worrying about network pressures.
“For years, we’ve watched late-night shows, and it’s been standard to poke fun at those in power. It’s all part of the job,” Baser noted.
Local comic James Dugan, known for his gigs at Chicago’s improv shows, shared with the Chicago Sun-Times that his crew often draws material from headlines where Trump frequently pops up. He voiced concern over the fatigue audiences might feel with too much Trump humor.
“We collect four to five newspapers, spread it out especially during performances,” Dugan explained. “Should we leave out Trump’s stories? I mean, people might be getting a bit weary of hearing about him.”
Some comedians remain anxious about the broader implications of Colbert’s cancellation. Unji Kim voiced worries that the high number of private lawsuits involving public officials is alarming.
Despite the concerns raised, CBS and its parent company, Paramount, maintain that the cancellation was based on financial factors, not political. Sources have indicated the decision was reached shortly before Paramount’s settlement with Trump.
Colbert has not shied away from criticizing Trump in the weeks following the cancellation. Recently, he told Trump to “go to himself” after the former president remarked on the end of “The Late Show.”
