Stephen Colbert

Stephen Colbert is a comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actor, and television host who has played a significant role in shaping American comedy and political satire. Colbert began his career in improvisational theater, performing professionally as an understudy for Steve Carell at Second City Chicago, where he also worked with comedians Paul Dinello and Amy Sedaris. Together, they created and starred in two television comedies: the sketch show "Exit 57" and the parody of after-school specials "Strangers with Candy."

Colbert gained national attention as a correspondent on "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," where he developed a satirical conservative persona. He later hosted "The Colbert Report," a parody of personality-driven political opinion shows, including "The O'Reilly Factor," in which he portrayed a caricatured version of conservative political pundits. His performance at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner, where he lampooned the administration and the media, further elevated his profile in political satire. "The Colbert Report" aired more than 1,400 episodes on Comedy Central and earned six Emmy Awards, including two for Outstanding Variety Series.

After "The Colbert Report," Colbert succeeded David Letterman as host of "The Late Show" on CBS, this time appearing as himself rather than a fictionalized character. The show became the highest-rated American late-night talk show, holding the top ranking for nine consecutive seasons and surpassing "The Tonight Show" in key demographic viewership. Colbert's book, "I Am America (And So Can You!)," reached No. 1 on The New York Times Best Seller list.

Colbert has received 52 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, winning 11 awards for his work on "The Daily Show," "The Colbert Report," "The Late Show," and a Showtime election special. He has also received three Grammy Award nominations, winning twice for Best Comedy Album for "A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!" and for Best Spoken Word Album for "America Again." Colbert has been honored with three Peabody Awards and was named one of Time's 100 most influential people. He received the Speaker of the Year Award from The Cross Examination Debate Association for his contributions to political discourse.

"The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" won Outstanding Talk Series at the Primetime Emmy Awards and received the Producers Guild Award for Outstanding Producer of Live Entertainment, Variety, Sketch, Standup & Talk Television. Over more than 3,000 episodes across two television networks, Colbert has established himself as a leading figure in television, comedy, and political commentary, recognized for his mastery of satire and his enduring influence on American public life.