Stephen Colbert Receives Rousing Standing Ovation at the Emmys: "Anyone Hiring?"
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards kicked off with a bang, and one of the most talked-about moments was the electric reception Stephen Colbert received. The comedian and late-night host was the first presenter of the night, and the audience at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles erupted into a standing ovation, a clear show of support following the news of The Late Show's upcoming end.
Visibly moved by the enthusiastic welcome, Colbert quipped, "Thank you very much, you are very kind! Sit down! Thank you very much, we've got to go!" But he wasn't quite done. After the applause subsided, he addressed the elephant in the room – the impending finale of his beloved late-night show.
With his signature wit and charm, Colbert lightened the mood with a humorous job plea. "While I have your attention, is anyone hiring?" he asked, drawing laughter from the crowd. "Because I've got 200 very qualified candidates with me here tonight who will be available in June," he added, referring to his talented staff who will be seeking new opportunities.
The comedic bit continued as Colbert brandished his resume and a somewhat dated headshot. "I think it still works," he joked, before attempting to pass it along to Harrison Ford with a request to deliver it to Steven Spielberg. The audience, including Sydney Sweeney, roared with laughter and applause.
Later in the evening, Colbert's triumphant night continued as The Late Show with Stephen Colbert secured the Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series, a first in its ten-year run. The win was particularly sweet, coming after the show also won its first directing Emmy at the Creative Arts ceremony. This recognition highlights the show's creative excellence and its impact on late-night television. Colbert even received support from fellow nominee Jimmy Kimmel, who encouraged voters to support him.
Accepting the award to chants of "Stephen! Stephen!" Colbert delivered a heartfelt speech. "Sometimes you only truly know how much you love something when you get a sense that you might be losing it," he shared. "I have never loved my country more desperately."
The Emmys 2025 were filled with memorable moments, and Stephen Colbert's opening and subsequent win were undoubtedly among the highlights. His humor, humility, and genuine appreciation resonated with viewers and industry peers alike. As the final season of The Late Show approaches, it's clear that Colbert's legacy as a comedic force and insightful commentator will endure.
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