Stephen Colbert Goes After Jeff Bezos Following Washington Post Layoffs
Stephen Colbert used his opening monologue this week to go straight after the Washington Post layoffs, and he did not soften his words. While hosting The Late Show, he criticized owner Jeff Bezos for cutting a large portion of the newsroom, calling it a terrible move for journalism. Colbert joked that the once-famous paper now felt “black and white and dead all over,” a line that quickly landed with the audience.
He said it felt strange watching such a powerful news outlet struggle so publicly. Colbert pointed out that he actually learned about the layoffs from a local Philadelphia news station instead of the Washington Post itself. Looking into the camera, he joked that there was no pressure on the remaining outlets, but it felt like only a handful of major papers were still standing.
The comedian then turned his attention to Bezos directly. During the segment, he showed a photo of the billionaire wearing a cowboy hat during his space flight. Colbert joked that while the layoffs were bad, they might only be Bezos’ second-worst decision, right behind choosing that hat.
Colbert also took aim at Washington Post executive editor Matt Murray. Murray had explained the cuts by saying the paper was losing too much money. Colbert joked that he wanted to read more of the statement, but couldn’t get past the paywall, adding “daddy don’t play like that” as the crowd laughed.
He didn’t stop there. Colbert mocked the paper’s famous slogan, “Democracy dies in darkness.” With so many sections being cut, including international coverage, books, and sports, he joked the slogan should now read “Democracy: Die! Die! Die!” The jokes landed hard, but the concern underneath them was clear.
According to media reports, the layoffs come as the Washington Post faces criticism over its direction and long-term future. Some journalists and readers worry the paper is shifting its tone and priorities during a tense political moment. Colbert’s monologue echoed fears shared across the media industry about shrinking newsrooms and the impact on public trust.
Away from the jokes, Colbert himself is dealing with major news. Earlier this year, CBS announced that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end in May. Colbert told viewers he learned about the decision last year and that the network plans to retire the entire Late Show franchise after more than three decades.
CBS has said the move is financial, even though Colbert has led late-night ratings for nine straight seasons. His exit marks the end of an era for political comedy on network television. For many viewers, his voice has been a constant during some of the most chaotic news cycles in recent memory.
Do you think late-night TV will feel the same once Stephen Colbert signs off for the final time, or will another voice step in to fill that space? Share your thoughts in the comments.
