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In the electrifying world of late-night television, Stephen Colbert has long been a master of satire, but even he has his limits when it comes to delivering punchlines with a straight face. On the September 3, 2025, episode of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” the host pushed the boundaries with an outrageously filthy impression of former President Donald Trump, nearly losing his composure mid-segment. The bit, which revolved around a wild, off-the-wall theory tying Trump to bizarre animal-related rumors, had Colbert struggling to keep it together, his laughter bubbling up as he channeled Trump’s bombastic style. This moment of unscripted hilarity quickly went viral, reminding viewers why Colbert’s blend of sharp wit and impeccable impressions keeps him at the top of the late-night game.
The segment stemmed from one of Trump’s more eccentric social media posts, where he shared an AI-generated image depicting him surrounded by cats and ducks, captioned with a defensive rant against critics. Colbert seized on this, spinning it into a comedic goldmine by impersonating Trump boasting about his supposed appeal to animals in a crudely suggestive manner. “I’m the best with the pussycats,” Colbert-as-Trump declared, his voice dripping with exaggerated bravado, before delving into even raunchier territory that had the audience in stitches. Midway through, Colbert broke character, his face contorting as he fought back giggles, exclaiming how the absurdity was too much even for him. The clip, clocking in at under two minutes, amassed millions of views online within hours, with fans praising his commitment to the bit despite the near-breakdown.
Colbert’s history with Trump impressions dates back to his days on “The Colbert Report,” where he first honed his satirical edge against political figures. Since taking over “The Late Show” in 2015, he’s transformed it into a powerhouse of commentary, often targeting Trump’s idiosyncrasies—from his tweet storms to his fast-food obsessions—with unflinching humor. This particular episode highlighted Colbert’s skill in blending current events with over-the-top parody, a formula that’s earned the show multiple Emmys and a loyal following. Trump’s real-life responses to such mockery have been legendary; he’s publicly called Colbert a “no-talent guy” and demanded his firing, which only fuels more material for the host. In this case, the animal-themed post seemed tailor-made for ridicule, playing into broader narratives about Trump’s unpredictable online presence.
Late-night television thrives on these unfiltered moments, where hosts like Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel turn political chaos into cathartic laughter. Colbert’s near-loss of control underscores the human side of comedy— even seasoned performers can crack under the weight of their own absurdity. Mental health advocates appreciate how such shows provide relief in tense times, with humor serving as a buffer against daily stresses. In the U.S., where political satire has roots in traditions like “Saturday Night Live,” Colbert’s approach keeps the genre fresh, appealing to audiences seeking intelligent laughs amid division.
As 2026 kicks off, this clip serves as a reminder of Colbert’s enduring relevance. With Trump potentially eyeing another run, expect more impressions that push envelopes. Fans speculate on future segments, but one thing’s certain: when Colbert channels Trump, hilarity ensues, even if it means risking a full-blown laugh attack. His ability to turn the filthy into the funny cements his status as a late-night icon, delivering joy one impression at a time.
