Stephen Colbert’s final episode as host of “The Late Show” on May 21, 2026, won’t mark the end of his career.
But as a scholar of political satire, I think it offers a chance to reflect on the lasting impact of his comedy, which has spanned his work as a correspondent on “The Daily Show,” his conservative pundit persona on “The Colbert Report” and his reinvention on “The Late Show.”
The best satirists do more than entertain. They influence public discourse and leave lasting marks on political life. This group includes towering writers such as Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain, alongside performers like Lenny Bruce and George Carlin.
In my view, Stephen Colbert has earned a spot in the top tier. Here are five reasons why.
