Colbert’s Show Axed: Joy Behar’s Bold Message Will Leave You Speechless!

In a recent episode of Behind the Table, a podcast extension of ABC’s The View, co-host Joy Behar sat down with executive producer Brian Teta to discuss a range of topics that blend entertainment, politics, and personal projects. Released on July 23, 2025, the episode titled “Joy Behar’s Message to Stephen Colbert” captures Behar’s candid thoughts on the cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, her views on the role of comedians in political discourse, and updates on her latest creative endeavor, a play titled My First Ex-Husband. This article delves into the key themes of the podcast, exploring Behar’s perspective on the evolving landscape of late-night television, the importance of comedic free speech, and her ongoing contributions to the arts.

The Cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert

The episode begins with Behar addressing the surprising news of the cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, a staple of late-night television. Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp wit and incisive political commentary, has been a prominent figure in American entertainment since taking over the show in 2015. Behar expresses her disappointment over the decision, noting the cultural and political significance of Colbert’s platform. She reflects on the broader challenges facing late-night television, including shifting audience habits, the rise of streaming platforms, and the increasing polarization of media consumption.

Behar’s reaction is not merely sentimental; it underscores her belief in the necessity of late-night shows as a space for satire and social critique. She argues that Colbert’s departure from the airwaves represents a loss for viewers who rely on comedians to unpack complex political issues with humor and clarity. The cancellation, she suggests, may reflect broader industry trends, such as budget cuts or network decisions to pivot toward less politically charged content. However, Behar remains optimistic about Colbert’s future, speculating that he may explore new avenues to continue his comedic commentary, whether through digital platforms or other creative outlets.

The Role of Comedians in Political Discourse

A central theme of the podcast is Behar’s impassioned defense of comedians’ role in political discourse. As a veteran comedian and television personality, Behar has long used humor to address societal issues, from gender dynamics to political corruption. In the episode, she emphasizes that comedians serve as a vital counterbalance to political power, offering perspectives that challenge the status quo. She points to historical examples, such as Lenny Bruce and George Carlin, who pushed boundaries and faced censorship for their outspoken critiques of authority.

Behar is unequivocal in her stance against censorship, particularly when it targets humor. She argues that comedy, even when provocative, is a form of free speech that should be protected. “Humor is a weapon against tyranny,” she states, highlighting its ability to expose hypocrisy and foster critical thinking among audiences. In the context of Colbert’s cancellation, Behar questions whether external pressures, such as advertiser influence or political sensitivities, played a role in the decision. While she acknowledges the need for sensitivity in comedy, she warns against stifling voices that use humor to hold power accountable.

This perspective resonates in an era where cancel culture and public backlash can swiftly silence public figures. Behar’s defense of comedic free speech is not a blanket endorsement of offensive humor but rather a call for nuance and context. She argues that comedians like Colbert, who blend intellect with wit, are essential for navigating the complexities of modern politics. Their absence, she fears, could leave a void in public discourse, where serious issues risk being discussed only in echo chambers or sanitized formats.

Updates on My First Ex-Husband

In addition to her commentary on Colbert and the state of comedy, Behar shares exciting updates about her play, My First Ex-Husband. The project, which she discussed in a previous episode, is a semi-autobiographical work that blends humor and drama to explore themes of relationships, resilience, and personal growth. In the podcast, Behar reveals that she has been actively involved in the casting process, a significant milestone in bringing the play to life.

Behar’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable as she describes her vision for the production. The play, she explains, draws on her experiences as a woman navigating the complexities of marriage and divorce in a patriarchal society. While the title suggests a lighthearted take, Behar hints that the narrative delves into deeper emotional territory, offering audiences both laughter and reflection. Her work on the play underscores her versatility as a creative force, extending beyond her role as a television personality to that of a playwright.

The casting process, Behar notes, has been both challenging and rewarding. She emphasizes the importance of finding actors who can capture the authenticity of the characters, many of whom are inspired by real people in her life. Without revealing specific names, Behar teases that she is in talks with talented performers who bring both comedic timing and dramatic depth to the table. This update highlights Behar’s commitment to storytelling and her desire to contribute to the theater world, an ambition she has nurtured throughout her career.

The Intersection of Comedy and Theater

Behar’s work on My First Ex-Husband also serves as a bridge between her comedic roots and her aspirations in theater. The podcast episode touches on how her background in stand-up comedy informs her approach to playwriting. Comedy, she explains, is about timing and truth, qualities that translate seamlessly into theatrical storytelling. By weaving humor into the narrative of her play, Behar aims to create a work that resonates with audiences on multiple levels—entertaining them while prompting introspection.

This intersection of comedy and theater also reflects broader trends in the entertainment industry, where multi-hyphenate artists are increasingly exploring diverse mediums. Behar’s transition from television to theater mirrors the paths of other comedians, such as Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, who have successfully ventured into writing and producing. Her play, she hopes, will contribute to this legacy, offering a fresh perspective on the human experience through a comedic lens.

The Broader Context: Challenges Facing Comedy and Media

The podcast episode situates Behar’s commentary within the broader context of challenges facing comedy and media in 2025. The cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert is not an isolated event but part of a larger shift in how audiences consume content. Behar and Teta discuss the impact of streaming services, social media platforms, and on-demand content, which have fragmented traditional television audiences. Late-night shows, once a cultural touchstone, now compete with a vast array of digital alternatives, from YouTube creators to podcast hosts.

Behar also addresses the role of social media in amplifying both comedy and controversy. Platforms like X have become double-edged swords, offering comedians a direct line to audiences while exposing them to rapid backlash. Behar reflects on her own experiences navigating this landscape, noting that while social media can amplify a comedian’s reach, it also demands a level of caution that can stifle creativity. Her comments underscore the delicate balance between authenticity and responsibility in the digital age.

Behar’s Legacy and Future Endeavors

As one of the longest-serving co-hosts of The View, Joy Behar has cemented her status as a cultural commentator and comedic voice. The podcast episode reaffirms her commitment to using her platform to address pressing issues, from free speech to the arts. Her defense of comedians’ role in political discourse and her work on My First Ex-Husband demonstrate her unwillingness to rest on her laurels. Instead, Behar continues to evolve, embracing new challenges and mediums to express her creativity.

Looking ahead, Behar’s plans for My First Ex-Husband signal her intent to leave a lasting mark on the theater world. The play, with its blend of humor and heart, has the potential to resonate with audiences seeking authentic, relatable stories. Meanwhile, her reflections on Colbert’s cancellation and the state of comedy highlight her role as a thought leader in the entertainment industry, advocating for the preservation of satire and free expression.

Conclusion

The Behind the Table podcast episode “Joy Behar’s Message to Stephen Colbert” offers a window into the mind of a seasoned comedian grappling with the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing media landscape. Behar’s commentary on the cancellation of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert underscores the cultural significance of late-night television, while her defense of comedic free speech highlights the vital role of humor in democracy. Simultaneously, her updates on My First Ex-Husband showcase her creative ambition and versatility as an artist.

Through her conversation with Brian Teta, Behar reaffirms her commitment to using comedy and storytelling to engage, entertain, and provoke thought. As she navigates the complexities of modern media, from television cancellations to social media dynamics, Behar remains a steadfast advocate for the power of laughter to challenge authority and connect people. Her work, both on The View and in the theater, continues to inspire audiences, proving that her voice—sharp, witty, and unflinchingly honest—remains as relevant as ever.