In a week that has already sent shockwaves through the world of late-night television, Stephen Colbert has spoken out for the first time since his sudden and controversial firing from CBS. In a raw, emotional interview, Colbert admitted he is now seriously considering leaving the United States—a move reminiscent of the exits made by fellow TV icons Rosie O’Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres.
For nearly a decade, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was a nightly ritual for millions of Americans. Colbert’s sharp wit, fearless satire, and signature blend of heart and humor made him a singular voice in a turbulent era. But this week, as news broke that CBS had abruptly ended his contract, fans and industry insiders alike were left reeling—and searching for answers.
Speaking to a small group of reporters from the living room of his Montclair, New Jersey home, Colbert was candid about his shock and disappointment. “I poured my soul into that show,” he said, his voice wavering. “It wasn’t just a job. It was a calling. But now, I finally understand why Rosie O’Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres left the country when they did. Sometimes, you just have to get out for your own sanity.”
Colbert’s reference to Rosie and Ellen is telling. Both women, once mainstays of American television, made headlines in recent years for their decisions to step away from the spotlight and, ultimately, from the country itself. O’Donnell, after years of public scrutiny, relocated to Canada. DeGeneres, whose eponymous talk show ended amid controversy, is rumored to have spent extended periods abroad, seeking solace and privacy.
“I used to wonder how anyone could leave everything behind,” Colbert continued. “But when you feel like the ground is shifting beneath your feet, when the work you love is suddenly taken away, you start to see things differently.”
Colbert’s departure from CBS was as sudden as it was mysterious. Insiders cite mounting tensions between the host and network executives over creative direction, political content, and ratings pressure. Some say Colbert was simply too outspoken in an era when networks are increasingly wary of controversy. Others point to the relentless grind of late-night TV—a schedule that leaves little room for personal life or self-care.
Whatever the reason, the impact has been profound. Colbert’s fans have flooded social media with messages of support, while fellow comedians and TV hosts have publicly lamented the loss of one of the industry’s sharpest minds.
“Stephen Colbert is a national treasure,” tweeted one late-night rival. “If he leaves America, we all lose.”
For his part, Colbert says he is weighing his options. “I love this country. I love the people who watched my show, who let me into their homes every night. But right now, I need to think about what’s best for me and my family.”
He added, “I’m not saying I’m gone for good. But for the first time, I understand why Rosie and Ellen did what they did. Sometimes, you have to step away to find your peace.”
As the interview ended, Colbert offered a bittersweet smile. “I’ve always believed in hope. Maybe this is just the start of a new chapter. Wherever I go, I’ll keep trying to make people laugh. That much, I promise.”
For millions of viewers, the loss of Colbert’s nightly presence is already being felt. Whether he stays or goes, his legacy—as a comedian, a commentator, and a champion of truth—remains unshakable.