Rock legend Bruce Springsteen made headlines during his recent appearance on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*, taking the opportunity to voice his criticisms of former President Donald Trump and express his support for Colbert as the show prepares to conclude. The broadcast aired on Wednesday, May 20, just one day before the final episode, marking a significant moment in late-night television history.
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Before performing his song “Streets of Minneapolis,” Springsteen, who is now 76 years old, delivered poignant remarks about the current state of late-night television and the impact of politics on the industry. He opened his set by stating that Colbert is “the first guy in America who lost his show because we’ve got a president who can’t take a joke.” This comment aimed to highlight what Springsteen perceives as a detrimental climate for comedic freedom under Trump’s administration.
The rock star took a swipe at prominent figures in the media landscape, referencing billionaire Larry Ellison and his son David, who have significant influence over CBS as owners of Paramount Global. Springsteen suggested that their behaviour towards Trump reflects a broader issue he sees: “These are small-minded people… they’ve got no idea what the freedoms of this beautiful country are supposed to be about.”
In addition to his political commentary, Springsteen dedicated his performance of “Streets of Minneapolis” to Colbert, connecting the song to ongoing issues related to immigration enforcement and civil liberties. The track, which Springsteen first performed live at a benefit concert in January, addresses the protests in Minneapolis against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency’s actions, spotlighting tragic events including the deaths of individuals at the hands of ICE agents.
Springsteen has made headlines not just for his music but also for his outspoken views on societal issues. His emotional delivery during the late-night performance was a reminder of how art and activism often intertwine. Following the song, the audience’s reception underscored the significance of Springsteen’s message in a current socio-political landscape often marked by division.
Colbert has hosted *The Late Show* for 11 seasons, during which time he cultivated a devoted viewership by engaging with political satire and topical humour. However, in July 2025, he announced that CBS would cease airing the long-running programme, a decision attributed to financial considerations. This left many audience members and industry peers reflecting on the evolving nature of late-night television and its responsiveness to contemporary political dialogue.
In a farewell message, Colbert expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he received over the years and the dedicated audience that has supported the show. He highlighted the connection created within the unique space he had cultivated while addressing the challenges faced by late-night hosts, particularly in the era of Trump, suggesting heightened scrutiny and pressure to navigate a politically charged atmosphere.
As the show approaches its finale on May 21, 2026, it raises questions about the future of late-night programming and the role of comedy in political discourse. Critics and fans alike are pondering what this shift means for the genre moving forward and whether it will be able to maintain its critical edge in addressing significant issues.
As *The Late Show* closes this chapter, part of its legacy will undeniably be defined by the fearless and often critical performances of artists like Springsteen, who use their platforms to advocate for freedoms and address injustices. His recent comments serve as a call to recognise the power of art in shaping and reflecting societal values, a theme that resonated deeply with audiences across the country.
With Springsteen’s heartfelt performance and Colbert’s engaging style, the final instalment of *The Late Show* promises to be a poignant reflection on the show’s impact over the years. As we move towards this conclusion, it invites viewers to remember the power of satire and music in challenging the status quo and advocating for a brighter future.