The Political Scene | The New Yorker How Bad Is It?: Trump’s War on Comedians
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Jul 31, 2025 
Roy Wood Jr., host of CNN's satirical program "Have I Got News for You" and a former correspondent on The Daily Show, dives into the current landscape of political comedy. He discusses CBS's cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and its implications for comedic expression. The conversation touches on a recent "South Park" episode that parodies Trump, showcasing how humor confronts political tension. Wood emphasizes that while the administration may attempt to intimidate comedians, this won't silence their voices in the face of critique.
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South Park vs Colbert's Fate
- South Park's biting satire of Trump contrasts sharply with Colbert's cancellation under the same parent company, Paramount.
- This raises questions about inconsistency in media tolerating offensive content depending on format and audience.
Roy Wood Jr. on Comedy's Resolve
- Roy Wood Jr. refuses to tone down his show's political satire despite pressures.
- He embraces speaking truth to power with his comedic platform on CNN.
Politics Behind Colbert's Cancellation
- The cancellation of Colbert's show wasn't just financial; political factors played a key role.
- Networks avoid risk and are hesitant to innovate amid mergers and changing media landscapes.
