Stephen Colbert reacts to being mentioned in Epstein files
Stephen Colbert has become the latest late-night host to respond after his name appeared in the most recently released Epstein files.
The Late Show star addressed the mention during his monologue, after reports pointed out that he was referenced in the newly released batch of documents connected to the investigation into convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Colbert was not the only comedian linked to the files; Jon Stewart was also noted in the documents.
However, much like Stewart, Colbert’s appearance in the files does not suggest any personal involvement with Epstein or his criminal activity. Instead, Colbert was reportedly mentioned only in emails, in a context unrelated to Epstein’s actions.
According to the documents, one of Epstein’s associates recommended that he watch Colbert’s explanation of Super PACs from his former Comedy Central program, The Colbert Report. The segment, which aired during Colbert’s years playing a satirical conservative pundit character, became widely known for breaking down complex campaign finance issues in a way that was both humorous and easy to understand.
Colbert used the moment to make light of the situation, joking about the strange nature of being mentioned in such a notorious set of files. “Well, there’s no such thing as bad publicity,” quipped Colbert. “Just look at our new Times Square billboard: ‘The Late Show: It’s really funny, think Jeffrey will enjoy watching!'”
His joke reflected both relief and disbelief, as he leaned into his signature sarcastic style. While the files have drawn intense attention for naming a wide range of individuals, Colbert’s inclusion appears to be one of the more harmless references, connected only to media recommendations rather than personal association.
Still, Colbert continued to dig into the documents for another angle, pointing out a detail that caught his attention for a very different reason. A self-described Tolkien fan, Colbert noted that the files also include references he found especially disturbing from a fantasy-literature perspective.
He claimed that Epstein mentioned fictional characters from The Lord of the Rings, including Bilbo Baggins. Colbert also highlighted one moment where Epstein reportedly compared himself to Gandalf, a beloved character known for wisdom and heroism. Colbert reacted strongly to the comparison, condemning it while also delivering another punchline.
“These files contain the names of folks even more important to me than me, because Epstein also name-dropped Bilbo Baggins, and at one point he compared himself to Gandalf,” said Colbert. “All right, that is disgusting. In the immortal words of Gandalf the Grey, ‘Eat shit you dead pervert.’ It sounds prettier in Elvish.”
The comments added Colbert’s voice to a growing list of public figures responding to the release of the Epstein documents, many of which continue to generate headlines and scrutiny.