After the long-running late-night institution ended last week, Guardian readers have been sharing their fondest memories of the show and its much-loved host. From his blistering response to the January 6 riots to his intimate Covid-era monologues, Colbert left an indelible mark on viewers worldwide.
A Covid Companion
Alice from London described Colbert as her "Covid buddy," saying, "He was my evening companion and kept me sane. I loved his wit, charm and an American perspective. A reminder that not all Americans are represented by Maga and that there is still an intelligent and witty America out there." Eric Schmeckpeper from Acworth added, "Colbert during Covid was our nightly sanity check, we would not have made it without him."
Fury and Eloquence After January 6
Robert Lindsay from London praised Colbert's live response to the January 6 Capitol riot: "It was an exemplary takedown of Republican party apologists and Fox News. His fury was blistering that met the moment and delivered with eloquence and humour." Eric Schmeckpeper echoed this, saying, "Colbert after the January 6 attack spoke for all of us who were outraged by the actions of Trump. His visible anger was just what we needed."
Unforgettable Moments and Impressions
Helen Lewis from Australia loved Colbert's Eric Trump impersonation: "His curling back the lips for his Eric Trump impression got me every time." Anne Macpherson from Rochester recalled his riff on Sarah Palin's endorsement of Trump in early 2016: "His enthusiasm for her nutty re-emergence in that silver porcupine jacket, then his over the top mimicry of her verbal style – brilliant, and still hilarious."
Interviews and Personal Connections
Dr Connie S Evans from Baltimore found Colbert's interview with Andrew Garfield about his mother's passing "very touching," noting Colbert's empathy given his own early losses. Mary Fitzpatrick from Glasgow said, "His show helped see me through that time especially as I had just been diagnosed with an autoimmune illness. I felt that I had found a friend."
Musical and Comedic Highlights
Patty from New York attended the last show before Christmas in 2018: "It was like attending a concert. Jon Batiste and Stay Human were incredible." Brian Maniora from Las Vegas repeatedly watched Colbert's explanation of Kylo Ren's lightsaber: "It's absolutely hilarious." David from Plymouth loved "every time the band played" and Colbert's takedowns of Trump's false claims.
A Legacy of Speaking Truth to Power
Rolla Lewis from Portland said Colbert made him proud to be an American: "His withering commentary and biting humor gave me hope that there were courageous people willing to speak truth to power." Lenny Rothbart from New York noted that after the show's cancellation was announced, Colbert became "the most dangerous adversary: one with nothing to lose."
Stephen Cook from Washington highlighted Colbert's discussions of faith: "His genuine love of his religion made him pop right out of the screen." As the show ended, readers expressed gratitude for a host who combined humor, intelligence, and humanity in a time of chaos.
