Why Stephen Colbert's Late Night Show Focuses on Donald Trump
One might wonder why Stephen Colbert only talks about Donald Trump on his late night show, but the answer lies in the dynamics of entertainment and ratings-driven content. Colbert’s monologues have consistently placed him atop the late-night chart since Trump’s inauguration, suggesting that the audience's engagement is driven by the topics being discussed.
Colbert's Late Night Segment Trends
During Colbert’s monologues, there is usually little mention of Trump after the main segment. In fact, segments like "Meanwhile" were created to be intentionally apolitical. This approach underscores the complexity of balancing political commentary with humor and maintaining audience interest.
Persistence and Profitability
Another primary reason for Colbert’s focus on Trump resides in the business aspect of his show. Colbert is an entertainer whose job is to draw viewership. In the highly competitive late-night market, Trump serves as a goldmine for comedic opportunities. Donald Trump’s daily mishaps provide a rich tapestry of material for Colbert to comment on, making him an excellent target for jokes and satire.
The Influence of a Nutty President
Donald Trump has been referred to as the "nuttiest president" in American history. Colbert, like many other comedians, recognizes this reality and capitalizes on it. By bringing Trump’s political escapades into the spotlight, Colbert offers a platform for his audience to share in the humor, thus fostering engagement and laughter.
America’s Role in Facilitating Colbert's Humor
Comedian Jon Stewart, Colbert’s old boss, once expressed his frustration with the ease with which Colbert’s work had become a commentary on the absurdities of government. Stewart suggested that America, with its exceptionally peculiar political climate under Trump, made Colbert’s job exceedingly easier. This sentiment resonates with the idea that the political landscape provided ample comedic fodder.
The Fertile Ground of Comedy
The principle of choosing a topic based on the richest yield can be seen in the late-night tradition. Comedian Dave Allen once explained that he targeted Catholics in his jokes as they provided the largest amount of comedic material. Similarly, Colbert’s work has capitalized on the abundant and ongoing material available from Trump’s presidency. This abundance makes him a perfect subject for Colbert’s satire and commentary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stephen Colbert’s focus on Donald Trump is not merely a reflection of his lack of talent but a strategic choice that balances humor, ratings, and contemporary political relevance. The late-night audience's engagement with Trump-centric content underscores the symbiotic relationship between political reality and entertainment in addressing and shaping public discourse.