New York City, December 24, 2025 – In a candid moment that has fans buzzing this Christmas Eve, Stephen Colbert finally addressed the swirling rumors about a potential 2028 presidential bid. The 61-year-old late-night icon, whose The Late Show is set to end its run in May 2026 amid cancellation, spoke at Slate’s Political Gabfest event on December 18. When pressed by hosts John Dickerson, Emily Bazelon, and David Plotz on whether he’d throw his hat in the ring, Colbert delivered a humorous yet definitive response: “Absolutely, I should not run for president.”
The revelation came during a lively discussion at the sold-out event, where Colbert reflected on his career, the political landscape, and the frequent fan suggestions that he follow in the footsteps of other celebrity politicians like Ronald Reagan or even Donald Trump. “I understand why you’d want me to,” Colbert quipped, acknowledging the appeal of his sharp wit and progressive stance in a divided America. But he quickly pivoted to self-deprecation, joking about his lack of political experience beyond satirical sketches and emphasizing that entertainment and governance are worlds apart.
Colbert’s comments arrive at a pivotal time. With his show wrapping up after a decade of dominating late-night TV – earning multiple Emmys and peaking at over 3 million nightly viewers – speculation has mounted about his next chapter. Fans have long floated the idea of a presidential run, inspired by his incisive commentary on issues like climate change, gun control, and democracy. Social media campaigns like #Colbert2028 gained traction in 2024, especially after Colbert’s emotional response to election results and his show’s cancellation, which some attributed to network pressures amid shifting media landscapes.
During the Gabfest, Colbert elaborated on why politics isn’t in his future. “I’m a comedian, not a commander-in-chief,” he said, drawing laughs. He referenced his alter ego from The Colbert Report – the bombastic conservative pundit – as proof that satire is his lane. “That character taught me how absurd power can be. Running for real? I’d probably end up roasting myself out of office.” He also touched on the personal toll of public life, citing family priorities and the intensity of campaigns in a polarized era.
The audience reaction was electric: applause mixed with groans of disappointment from those hoping for a “yes.” Online, responses poured in. “Colbert would crush debates – but respect his choice,” tweeted one fan. Another lamented, “America needs more humor in politics; too bad he’s out.” Critics of Trump-era politics saw it as a missed opportunity, while supporters praised his realism.
Colbert’s history fuels the intrigue. From his 2006 White House Correspondents’ Dinner roast of George W. Bush to his 2020 election coverage, he’s been a political force without holding office. In 2007, he even “announced” a satirical run for president on The Colbert Report, complete with a South Carolina ballot spot (quickly withdrawn). That stunt raised $68,000 for charity and highlighted his ability to blend comedy with activism. More recently, his show’s cancellation – announced in July 2025 amid CBS cost-cutting and viewer shifts to streaming – sparked theories of political backlash, though Colbert dismissed them as “overdramatized.”
Looking ahead, Colbert hinted at new ventures: writing, producing, and perhaps a podcast or book tour. “I’ll keep talking about what matters,” he said, “but from a stage, not the Oval Office.” Industry insiders speculate he’ll focus on Elefint, his production company behind hits like Our Cartoon President and animated specials.
As 2025 closes on this Christmas Eve, Colbert’s “no” to 2028 closes a door but opens others. In a year of upheaval – from elections to media shake-ups – his voice remains vital. Fans may dream of President Colbert, but for now, he’s content being America’s late-night conscience.
