Stephen Colbert Biography
Full Name: Stephen Tyrone Colbert
Born: May 13, 1964
Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
Occupation: Comedian, Actor, Writer, Producer, Political Satirist, Television Host
Notable Shows: The Colbert Report, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Early Life and Education
Stephen Colbert was born the youngest of 11 children to James and Lorna Colbert. He grew up in Charleston, South Carolina. His father and two of his brothers died in a tragic plane crash when Stephen was just 10 years old — a loss that deeply impacted his life.
He initially planned to become a marine biologist but changed course during college. He attended Hampden–Sydney College in Virginia before transferring to Northwestern University, where he studied performance and developed his comedic skills.
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Early Career and Breakthrough
Colbert began his career in comedy through improv. He trained at Chicago’s famed Second City alongside future collaborators like Amy Sedaris and Paul Dinello. This led to his early television work, including The Dana Carvey Showand the cult hit Strangers with Candy.
His big break came when he joined The Daily Show on Comedy Central in 1997, where his deadpan satire and mock-conservative persona gained him national attention.
The Colbert Report (2005–2014)
In 2005, Colbert launched The Colbert Report, a satirical news show in which he played a caricature of a right-wing pundit. The show became a massive success and earned critical acclaim, including several Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. Colbert’s character blurred the lines between parody and political commentary, influencing real-world discussions.
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (2015–2025)
In 2015, Colbert succeeded David Letterman as host of The Late Show on CBS. He dropped his satirical persona and hosted as himself, maintaining a strong political focus, especially during the Trump presidency. Colbert became a leading voice in political comedy and consistently led late-night ratings.
The show received numerous Emmy nominations and won a Peabody Award in 2021. In 2025, CBS announced that The Late Show would end in May, closing a major chapter in Colbert’s career.
Personal Life
Colbert is married to Evelyn McGee-Colbert, whom he met in South Carolina. They have three children together. He is a devout Catholic and has spoken openly about his faith, grief, and mental health.
Legacy and Influence
Stephen Colbert is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent and influential voices in American comedy. His work has shaped modern satire and political commentary, blending humor with substance in ways that few others have matched. Whether playing a character or speaking from the heart, Colbert’s impact on American television and political discourse is profound and lasting.
