Stephen Colbert has shown a consistent fascination with Canada through his late-night shows over the years. His playful ribbing and admiration for Canadian currency, politics, and culture have been a recurring theme on both CBS’s “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report.”
After announcing the end of his show’s run last year, citing financial reasons amid a challenging late-night landscape, Colbert’s final episode is scheduled to air on May 21. The decision to end the show raised speculation, particularly as it coincided with Colbert’s public criticism of Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, settling a legal dispute with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Colbert’s connection to Canada runs deeper as genealogy research revealed his Canadian roots through his great-great-grandparents, who settled in Frontenac County near Kingston, Ontario. Throughout the years, Colbert has playfully poked fun at Canadian stereotypes and traditions, including rewriting the Canadian national anthem and humorously attempting a mock Canadian citizenship test.
The late-night host has also engaged with Canadian politicians, including former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, discussing Canadian identity and humorously comparing Canadian bacon to its American counterpart. Furthermore, Colbert has welcomed numerous Canadian stars on his show, expressing admiration for icons like Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy.
Not shying away from controversy, Colbert once made a jest about Windsor, Ontario, in his book, causing a humorous exchange with the city’s mayor and CBC News. Despite occasional jests and jabs, Colbert’s affection for Canada shines through in his comedic portrayals and interactions with Canadian guests.
