Stephen Colbert
Stephen Colbert, a name synonymous with satirical wit and observational humor, has carved an indelible niche in American television. Born on May 13, 1964, in Washington D.C., Colbert was the youngest of eleven children in a Catholic family. His early life was marked by tragedy, as his father and two brothers died in a plane crash when he was only ten years old.
Colbert's career trajectory is a testament to his talent. He graduated from Northwestern University's School of Communication in 1986 and began his career as a comedic actor in the improvisational comedy troupe, Second City, in Chicago. His big break came in 1997 when he started working on Comedy Central's The Daily Show as a correspondent. Colbert's unique blend of satire and political commentary resonated with audiences, leading to the creation of his own spin-off show, The Colbert Report, in 2005. The show, featuring Colbert as a faux-conservative pundit, won numerous awards during its nine-year run, including two Peabody Awards and several Emmys.
In 2014, CBS announced that Colbert would succeed David Letterman as the host of The Late Show. With this move, Colbert transitioned from playing a character to being himself on screen, showcasing his versatile comedic range. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert continues to be a platform for Colbert's sharp, insightful commentary on current affairs. Throughout his career, Colbert has also authored several books, lent his voice to animated films, and even made a cameo in one of the Hobbit movies, underscoring his status as a multi-talented entertainer. Despite his fame, Colbert remains dedicated to philanthropy, contributing to various charities and causes, reflecting a deep sense of social responsibility that underpins his public persona.