Stephen Colbert reacts to fatal shooting of right-wing firebrand Charlie Kirk

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Stephen Colbert spoke about the incident involving Charlie Kirk during an unexpected opening monologue on the Wednesday evening edition of The Late Show.

In a more relaxed and conversational style, the comedian, aged 61, adopted a serious demeanor while speaking to his audience from his desk, following the tragic shooting of a right-wing activist at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University earlier in the day.

He expressed his regret over instances of ‘political violence’ and drew a parallel between Kirk’s shooting and the widespread political unrest and violence that gripped the United States during the 1960s.

Kirk met his unfortunate end at the age of 31, following a gunshot wound to his neck, allegedly inflicted by an individual hiding in a neighboring structure.

Instead of starting with the usual Late Show introduction, the show began with Colbert speaking directly to the audience, following reactions from other Hollywood stars about Kirk’s passing.

As an ardent admirer of the Late Show, I’m compelled to share some poignant news that struck us today. Having finalized our scripts this very afternoon, we were saddened to learn about the untimely demise of Charlie Kirk, a renowned right-wing activist, at a speaking event in Utah. Our heartfelt sympathies extend to his family and all those who held him dear.

In simpler terms, Colbert stated, “I’m old enough to have lived through the political upheaval of the 1960s. I believe it’s clear to all Americans that political violence doesn’t address our disputes or resolve our differences.

‘Political violence only leads to more political violence,’ he added.

Colbert went on to say he hoped that Kirk’s shooting was only an isolated tragedy. 

With deep fervor, I hope that this was an insane act by a single individual and not a foreshadowing of future events,” he expressed.

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2025-09-11 08:33