Colbert's Sarcastic Nod to New Paramount Chief David Ellison on 'National Boss's Day'
In a playful yet pointed manner, CBS late-night host Stephen Colbert, whose show is set to end next May, took a humorous jab at his network's new boss, David Ellison, on Thursday, National Boss's Day. During his opening monologue, Colbert presented a satirical tribute to Ellison, the newly appointed CEO of the Paramount Skydance joint venture, with a touch of sarcasm.
"I want to take a moment to celebrate my new boss, Paramount CEO David Ellison: Mr. Ellison, I love you," Colbert quipped while holding up a 'David Ellison Appreciation Cam.'
Ellison, previously the CEO of Skydance Media, assumed the role of CEO at the newly formed Paramount Skydance after his company merged with Paramount in August. This merger occurred just a month after CBS announced the cancellation of Colbert's show, citing financial reasons, which Colbert later hinted at during the episode.
"I join you tonight in a celebratory mood because, as you know, today is National Boss's Day. I hope you all treated your boss to their favorite gift — two minutes of awkward chitchat until the elevator arrives. Remember to say your kids' names so they don’t have to," Colbert joked. After expressing his affection for Ellison, Colbert winked and added, "That oughta buy us a couple more months."
The cancellation of Colbert's show followed a $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump in July, stemming from a lawsuit over an edited 2024 interview with Vice President Kamala Harris on '60 Minutes.' Colbert criticized CBS and Paramount for giving in to Trump to secure regulatory approval for their merger with Skydance, suggesting a 'big fat bribe.'
Additionally, prominent liberals have criticized Ellison and his new joint venture for acquiring the independent outlet 'The Free Press' and appointing Bari Weiss as the editor-in-chief of CBS News, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and media influence.
