TV comeback with bite: Stephen Colbert gives Donald Trump no peace

Stephen Colbert, one of the most well-known late-night hosts and fiercest critics of Donald Trump, will soon be back on US television after the cancellation of his own show—albeit in an unexpected role. According to media reports, the 61-year-old will take on a guest role in the third season of the dramedy crime series “Elsbeth,” as reported by industry magazines “Deadline,” “The Hollywood Reporter,” and “Variety.” The series airs on the US network CBS, which only recently announced the end of Colbert’s “The Late Show.”

Return as an Actor

Colbert’s guest appearance in “Elsbeth” was reportedly filmed last week, though it had likely been planned for some time. In February, actor Wendell Pierce had promised Colbert during his “Late Show” to get him a role in the series. “Elsbeth” is a spin-off of the successful legal dramas “Good Wife” and “The Good Fight.” Lead actress Carrie Preston plays the eccentric attorney Elsbeth Tascioni, who helps the police solve murder cases.

Protests Against the End of “The Late Show”

CBS’s announcement that “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” would end in May 2026 sparked widespread outrage among fans and colleagues of the host in mid-July. Many expressed disappointment over the end of the popular show, which was especially known for Colbert’s sharp wit and pointed criticism of Donald Trump.

US President Donald Trump, who was frequently the target of mockery and criticism on Colbert’s show, reacted with glee to the end of the program. On his platform Truth Social, Trump wrote: “I absolutely love that Colbert has been fired. His talent was even smaller than his ratings.” Recently, Trump has also targeted other media personalities, such as radio host Charlamagne tha God, who had criticized the handling of the Epstein scandal.

Support from the Comedy Scene

Many prominent colleagues rallied behind Colbert after the cancellation. Talk show hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Seth Meyers publicly expressed their solidarity. Comedian Jon Stewart stated on his “The Daily Show” that the decision was a reflection of the fear and preemptive obedience currently shaping many American institutions.

Late-Night Shows as a Social Force

Since Donald Trump’s election as US President, American late-night shows have become an important voice in social discourse. While traditional media often reach their limits in reporting on Trump, comedy formats like Colbert’s confront right-wing populism with sharp satire, making the president the target of humor before millions of viewers.

With his upcoming guest appearance on “Elsbeth,” Stephen Colbert will remain a presence on American television—and with his audience—even after the announced end of his late-night show.