Late Show host Stephen Colbert returned to the airwaves on Monday night after a week-long break and immediately took aim at Tucker Carlson’s recent firing from Fox News.
In a five-minute monologue filled with clever jabs, Colbert poked fun at the conservative commentator and speculated on what his next move might be.
“We have been off the air for a week,” Colbert said. “You know who else has? Tucker Carlson. The difference is, I’m allowed back on.”
Colbert went on to address the mystery surrounding Carlson’s sudden departure from Fox News, jokingly referring to it as a Nancy Drew mystery.
“You can read all about it in Nancy Drew and the Case of Why Didn’t This Happen Years Ago?” he quipped.
The Late Show host then turned his attention to reports that Carlson had called a Fox News executive the C-word.
“For those who don’t know what word I’m talking about, he called his boss a See You Next Tuesday, or in this case a See You Never, Tucker,” Colbert joked.
Colbert also speculated on what Carlson’s next career move might be, jokingly suggesting that he could become a spokesperson for Russian State Media. “That’s got to be a tempting offer. Up until now, he’s been representing Russia pro bono,” he quipped.
The Late Show host’s comments were met with laughter and applause from the audience, many of whom were no doubt happy to see him back on the airwaves.
His monologue was yet another example of Colbert’s sharp wit and biting humor, which have made him one of the most popular late-night hosts in the country.