Stephen Colbert’s five best monologues of 2020

1. Stephen Colbert gets emotional while improvising his monologue

We started this list by looking at a joyous and relieved Stephen Colbert in the wake of the 2020 presidential election. But the Late Show host wasn’t always in a good mood and wasn’t always certain that brighter days were ahead.

Between election night and the declaration of Joe Biden’s victory, President Trump made a speech that shocked Colbert for its apparent disregard for the democratic process. The president claimed that widespread election fraud had taken place and that anything other than his victory was illegitimate.

During that night’s monologue, Colbert decided to tear up his prepared remarks. The comedian appeared to struggle to keep his emotions in check as he reacted to President Trump’s words. After covering everything President Trump said for four years, it looked like Colbert had reached his breaking point.

But rather than throw his hands up and do nothing, Colbert once again tried to use his monologue for good. Colbert saw it as a moment for Americans to take a final stand against President Trump. Specifically, the late night host was looking for a Republican to do something in response:

"So say something right now, Republicans. Not later. Right now. It’s in your best interest. You only survived this up until now because a lot of voters didn’t want to believe everything that was obivious to so many of us: that Donald Trump is a fascist. You need to choose: Donald Trump or the American people."

This monologue was representative of what Stephen Colbert wanted The Late Show to be during the election and in a larger sense, the Trump administration. A place where truth and facts matter. A place where leaders were held accountable. Yes, it’s a comedy show. But hosting a comedy show doesn’t mean that someone like Colbert leaves his values and morals at the door.

The response to this monologue from fans is a clear indication that millions of people sided with Colbert and felt the same way. Joe Biden’s resounding victory in the election confirmed what Colbert hoped was true: Americans were ready to stand up to President Trump.

What was your favorite monologue moment from Stephen Colbert in 2020? What do you expect from The Late Show in 2021? Let us know in the comment section below.