Kathy Griffin Calls Out Stephen Colbert for ‘Ambush’ Over Trump Controversy

Kathy Griffin Calls Out Stephen Colbert for ‘Ambush’ Over Trump Controversy

Kathy Griffin recently criticized Stephen Colbert for what she describes as a “bulls– ambush” during a 2018 interview on “The Late Show.” The comedian’s remarks center around the infamous image of her holding a prop that resembled the bloodied, decapitated head of former President Donald Trump. This incident stirred significant controversy in 2017 and had lasting effects on Griffin’s career.

In a video posted to her YouTube channel, Griffin reflected on the December 2018 appearance—more than 18 months after her original photo sparked widespread backlash. The video is titled “Stephen Colbert made me cry!” and has garnered attention for its candid revelations.

Griffin’s Expectations and Disappointment

Before her appearance on “The Late Show,” Griffin asked producers to avoid discussing the Trump photo, expressing her fatigue with the topic. A producer assured her that they would adhere to her wishes. However, shortly before going on stage, Griffin received disheartening news that Colbert planned to address the photograph.

Feeling trapped, Griffin chose to attempt diverting Colbert’s questions during the interview. However, she was unprepared for how aggressively he pursued the topic. She described the experience as akin to being interrogated on a news program, noting that Colbert’s approach signaled a personal bias against her.

Emotional Turmoil During the Interview

Griffin revealed that she fought back tears while on camera, striving to shield her emotional struggle from the audience. She characterized Colbert’s questioning as an ambush imbued with misogyny. Griffin argued that a male comic would likely not have faced the same scrutiny in a similar situation.

Expressing her disillusionment, she claimed that Colbert used his platform to undermine a performer she considers an underdog in the industry, labeling her celebrity status as “D-list.” This admission highlights the complex dynamics of gender and power in the entertainment world.

Shifting Opinions of Colbert

Previously, Griffin held Colbert in high regard. However, her experience colored her perception of him negatively. She expressed her disappointment, stating, “For him to be coming at me that way and to see me almost lose it…I have such a low opinion of Stephen Colbert right now.”

Griffin’s candid remarks about Colbert’s lack of support for fellow comedians underscore a broader discussion about solidarity and respect in show business.

Revisiting the 2018 Interview

During the original interview, Colbert dedicated approximately ten minutes to discussing the controversial photo and the ensuing backlash. Griffin recounted how 60 million Americans misinterpreted her as a member of ISIS, reflecting the severity of the public’s response to her actions.

Moreover, she recounted professional repercussions, including alleged federal investigations related to conspiracy against the former President. This characterization reveals the profound impact that the incident had on her career and public image.

The First Amendment Debate

Throughout the interview, Griffin defended her right to create and share artistic expressions under the First Amendment. However, Colbert pushed back, noting that there are limits to what can be said about the President of the United States, particularly regarding threats to his safety.

Griffin strongly asserted her position, insisting she did not advocate for violence, responding, “Right, which I did not do.” This exchange illustrates the complexities of artistic expression and the vital conversations surrounding accountability in humor and satire.

Final Reflections on the Incident

Griffin’s portrayal of the interaction with Colbert serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges comedians face, especially when navigating sensitive social and political topics. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, conversations about empathy, representation, and the responsibilities of public figures become increasingly vital.

While Griffin’s experience with Colbert continues to shape her current view of him, it also invites broader discussions about the treatment of artists, particularly women in the industry, and the need for compassion in comedic discourse.

CBS has not issued any comment regarding Griffin’s allegations. The silence from the network may reflect ongoing tensions surrounding the modern media landscape and the responsibility of late-night hosts to balance humor with understanding.