US President Donald Trump sparked a new controversy after posting an AI-generated video on his official X account late Friday depicting late-night host Stephen Colbert being thrown into a dumpster before Trump dances to the song "YMCA."
Video Content and Reactions
The video, which quickly went viral, shows Colbert hosting his usual late-night program before Trump enters from behind, lifts the comedian and tosses him into a garbage can. The footage then transitions to Trump dancing to "YMCA" — a gay disco anthem which has become the unofficial soundtrack for rallies. The clip has fueled intense reactions from both supporters and critics. Trump has previously come under fire for posting AI-generated depictions of himself as "Jesus" and a "doctor."
Context of Colbert's Final Show
The video comes just a day after Colbert's final "Late Show," which aired on Thursday, May 21, after CBS announced the show's cancellation citing financial strains on traditional late-night television. Colbert had the highest ratings throughout his time slot. In his final episode, Colbert got the last laugh. An estimated 6.74 million people tuned in, more than double his current season weeknight average. An embittered Trump fumed on Truth Social as the show's credits rolled, calling Colbert "no talent, no ratings, no life."
Long-Standing Rivalry
The AI video reflects the years-long rivalry between Trump and Colbert, whose late-night monologues frequently criticized the president and Republicans during Trump's first presidency. Trump repeatedly responded publicly to Colbert's jokes, at times calling him "untalented" and accusing network television hosts of political bias.
Financial and Political Implications
CBS has said the cancellation was a "purely financial decision," rejecting any political involvement, though critics have noted that Paramount, CBS's parent company, had recently settled a lawsuit with Trump for $16 million and was seeking approval for an $8 billion merger at the time of the cancellation.
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