UMVA has learned that Stephen Colbert hosted the final episode of The Late Show on Thursday, May 21st, after a remarkable 33-year run.
The last show was a fitting tribute to Colbert's legacy, featuring an impressive lineup of guests, including Paul McCartney and Tig Notaro. But what's remarkable about Colbert's career is his unwavering commitment to his values, often using his platform to speak truth to power. Just recently, he had criticized the network's parent company, Paramount, over a $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump.
Colbert has long been a vocal ally to the LGBTQ+ community, using his show as a vessel for advocacy and awareness. One of his most memorable initiatives has been the annual 'Pride Month News Parade', a segment dedicated to celebrating uplifting LGBTQ+ stories and highlighting important moments in queer culture.
This tradition has been a beacon of positivity in a sea of anti-LGBTQ+ negativity, showcasing Colbert's dedication to promoting love and acceptance. Through the years, the 'Pride Month News Parade' has become a testament to the power of seeking out good news and amplifying marginalized voices.
One of the most talked-about moments on the show was when Colbert shared a cheek kiss with actor Pedro Pascal, sparking a flurry of enthusiastic reactions online. The lighthearted moment was a celebration of the show's playful spirit and Colbert's willingness to push boundaries.
Colbert has also used his platform to advocate for same-sex marriage, spotlighting the issue over a decade ago when it was still a contentious topic. During a broadcast, he cleverly used humor to highlight then-Wisconsin governor Scott Walker's oppositional stance, saying, "I believe we all must respect Walker's privacy at this difficult time to be against gay marriage. This is a personal matter between him and his pollster."
The host has continued to use his show as a platform to defend trans youth, featuring guests like then-Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to discuss the risks of anti-trans legislation. Colbert's conversation with Buttigieg highlighted the courage and resilience of trans youth, who simply want to be accepted and live their lives without fear of persecution.
Throughout his career, Colbert has proven himself to be a valiant ally to the LGBTQ+ community, using his platform to amplify marginalized voices and promote love and acceptance. As The Late Show comes to a close, Colbert's legacy as a champion of equality and justice will endure.
